rock n roll

Just as “Almost Famous” is frustrating in its depiction of the music writer as a component of the rock ’n’ roll ecosystem, it also illustrates a key aspect of the 1970s scene: It was full of confusion and hypocrisy, but, for some people, it was life-changing.

Gritty, frenetic and infectiously charming, Inhaler has breathed fresh life into the indie rock scene since its formation in 2012.

Hozier’s appreciation for the work of Black musicians shapes the entire track, including the lyrics, the gospel-inspired chorus and, most importantly, the involvement of a prominent civil rights singer, Mavis Staples, who sings alongside him.

Six years since its forming, Greta Van Fleet is finally breaking the hard rock scene with debut full-length album Anthem Of The Peaceful Army. Its first two EPs were released last year, but this 11-song compilation contains a deeper look into the hard Americana rock base of the group.

And when Kikagaku Moyo started its set, there was an immediate dive into a layered psychedelia. The band’s name translates to “geometric patterns,” which pairs nicely with the designation of psych rock as kaleidoscopic and trippy — music to be heard through a daze of fog, heads slowly bobbing side to side.

It was a concert wholly for the fans, though the group remained unfazed by the audience’s constant crowd-surfing and stage-diving.

Ward’s classic rock vibes reach into every facet of her life — the artist can wax poetic about her love for vintage clothes from the ‘60s and ‘70s.