Ricky Stein‘s music is a refreshing, unironic throwback to the days when blues-rock ruled the airwaves. Hailing from Austin, Texas, Stein harnesses the gritty, southern aesthetic personified by classic rock bands like The Allman Brothers and Lynyrd Skynyrd, and more recently, Shakey Graves, and creates a sound unique unto himself. On "Don’t Leave Me Hangin’ On," from 2012’s Crazy Days, Stein showcases his aptitude as a songwriter while also paying tribute to his roots-rock predecessors. The music is urgent and driving, but also subtle, with unexpected twists and turns that proves an artist can be steeped in tradition without being predictable. Ricky Stein is playing at Mercury Lounge on April 10th, with Belle-Skinner and Pearla. Listen to "Don’t Leave Me Hangin’ On" below! – Ethan Ames