(United States – Blues/Soul)

Theoretically speaking, Black Joe Lewis just doesn’t make sense. Seriously, how can any dude still shy of 30 sound this soulful? And, more pertinently, how can anyone raised in suburban Round Rock, Texas, make music this damn funky? But lo and behold, it’s all true: Black Joe Lewis is the real deal, and all skepticism is blown away the minute he takes the stage with his formidable ensemble of like-minded soul mates, the Honeybears. Britt Daniel invited the band to tour with Spoon, and it wasn’t long before Black Joe and Co. were signed to Lost Highway Records. The label released the band’s full-length debut, Tell ’Em What Your Name Is!, in March. It’s a raw and raucous affair from start to finish — classic rock ’n’ soul for a new generation that at least a couple of older generations can dig, too.