The Black Keys @ ABC

The sound produced live by this hard-rocking two-piece was surprisingly thick and meaty, packing more punch than many other four and five piece bands. The 'Keys performed a wide selection from their catalogue, avoiding the trap of playing too many numbers from their most popular release 'Thickfreakness'. There was a smattering of material from latest album 'Magic Potion' that really impressed, suggesting that this album deserves more attention than it's currently receiving. The simple stage set with drum kit right up front next to energetic and hairy guitarist Dan Auerbach added intimacy, and some memorable lighting effects made for a brilliant live experience. This sort of hook-laden, straight up bluesy-rock really deserves a much wider audience. [Xavier Toby]