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In a city where go-go reigns supreme, it’s almost impossible to classify Black Alley’s self-described fusion of funk, soul, and garage. While the local septet is widely considered a go-go band, its sound is much more inclusive. Sometimes the group morphs into a full-on rock band with abrasive guitar riffs and crashing drum cymbals; elsewhere, they explore subdued R&B melodies, with lead vocalist Kacey Williams tackling the all-familiar topic of romance. That multifaceted mixture has served the band well so far: Black Alley has performed with Chuck Brown and opened the HFStival at Merriweather Post Pavilion. So tonight’s show at the Rock & Roll Hotel is a celebration of sorts, as Black Alley performs songs from Soul.Swagger.Rock.Sneakers, its long-awaited debut album.
Black Alley Band performs with Funk Mnkyz at 7 p.m. at Rock & Roll Hotel, 1353 H St. NE. $25 in advance, $30 at the door. rockandrollhoteldc.com. (202) 388-ROCK.