Dan Auerbach

Seeing Dan Auerbach's name splayed solo across a record seems strange when you've heard him speak about the close way that he and Black Keys band-mate Pat Carney click. But there's nothing unnatural about his debut, Keep It Hid, a record grounded in its raw take on rock, one that wears its blues and psychedelic influences like a badge of honour. Auerbach doesn't move away from the Black Keys sound, especially on "The Prowl," but that's what makes Keep It Hid sincere. His voice anchors every song, his lyrics are thoughtful and his guitar riffs are perfect without sounding contrived. Auerbach is, without a doubt, as gifted as he is introverted. And that makes him one talented man.