The Muse previews two of the bands playing in Boston over Spring Break

Having survived fleeting success and major label apathy, Nada Surf singer/guitarist Matthew Caws and his band can finally afford to have a laugh.

"What did the number zero say to the letter H?" joked Caws in an interview with The Muse. "Nice belt!"

After rising to fame with the 1996 hit single "Popular," Nada Surf faded into obscurity. When the indie crowd welcomed the band's 2003 release Let Go with critical praise and enthusiasm, the band was as shocked as the industry cynics who wrote them off as one-hit wonders.

"We were really surprised," Caws said. "I mean, the world was a little more perfect than we thought it was. It was heart-warming."

Now on tour to support its fourth album, The Weight Is A Gift, Nada Surf is spreading its mantra of "positivity and escape" to sold-out clubs across the country.

"I think it's our best [tour] yet in the States," Caws said. "I feel very lucky and grateful."

In addition to the new material (including his personal favorite, "Do It Again"), Caws promises the ultimate finale: a dance party with openers Rogue Wave and Inara George.

For more jokes and a dose of optimistic rock, catch Nada Surf at the Paradise Rock Club on Thursday, March 9. Doors open at 8 p.m.