“Garage-rock” and “Retro-rock” are two terms they’re often tagged with, but neither does justice to Oakland’s Shannon & The Clams. With their rich and varied aesthetic, great songs and a colourfully textured sound that takes in classic ‘60s girl-group and ‘50s R&B doo wop, Shannon & The Clams play souped-up, keyboard and guitar-driven ‘60s-inspired soulful pop rock’n’roll. With a penchant for minor-key moods and swinging grooves, the group has an emotional authenticity that belies their fun time name and a lively spirit that confirms it, and in Shannon Shaw they have a voice and a presence for the ages. After six albums and nearly as many tours of Oz, Shannon & The Clams have a huge repertoire of killer tunes and the unflagging spirit that makes for the greatest of live bands.