Dan Auerbach "Keep It Hid"

This is Auerbach's first solo album, after spending the last 8 years as lead singer and guitarist of the Black Keys. I expected this effort to sound similar to his groupwork; you can't get away from the music that inspires you. But Auerbach does a nice job of mixing the blues rock-iness of the Black Keys with some good ol' American folk. The first song sounded straight off a Ray LaMontagne album. If you like LaMontagne -- or Iron & Wine -- but wished they would try picking up the tempo a little bit, then this album is for you.

Must hear: Real Desire

(Release Date: 2/10/09)