For those that don’t know The Arcs are a side project for Black Keys guitarist and singer Dan Auerbach. It’s a more psychedelic slowed down soulful blues feel than the Keys.
As a refreshing change the band are on stage not only on time but early. After a few sound problems with the first two songs where Auerbach’ s vocal was lost down in the mix they pick things up with a great two header of ‘Flower in your pocket’ and ‘Pistol made of bones’.
The whole evening has a trippy sixties feel with a kaleidoscopic changing backdrop illuminating the band. The band tonight are tight with two drummers and female backing singers’ also providing guitar, violin and trumpet accompaniments,
With just the one album the set is supplemented with covers with Chrissie Hynde joining them on stage for a great run through of ‘I go to Sleep’ and ‘Baby I love you’ before they sign off with a storming version of my favourite track ‘Outta my mind’.
Early sound problems aside this was an excellent show for a man who clearly can’t stand sitting around doing nothing and has time to produce one of the best albums this year and arguably better than the recent super polished Black Keys albums. Looking forward to the forthcoming EP.
We both leave having enjoyed the past ninety minutes and my musical education for my son is complete as he secures the setlist from the sound man. Chip and block spring to mind.
Keep on rockin y’all