Alabama Shakes

Alabama neo-soul quartet return for more smokey old-time rock ’n’ soul on its sophomore album, Sound & Color, mixing up authentic and respectful R&B with bluesy arrangements that recall the Black Keys. Lead singer Brittany Howard is a far more commanding presence than Keys' frontman Dan Auerbach, passionately delivering heartfelt lyrics alongside ripping guitar solos. It might seem impossible, but Alabama Shakes have the chops that can make a cavernous venue like the Civic Opera House feel intimate.