Since the age of 12, Gary Clark Jr. has been playing gigs in Austin. Jimmie Vaughan, brother of Stevie Ray, helped nurture Clark and get him more involved in the music community. And as you would imagine, lofty comparisons would soon follow. It’s usually easy to dismiss critics when they cast likenesses’ to Steve Ray or Hendrix, but after listening (or seeing) to Clark perform you’ll be in surprising agreement. After listening to Bright Lights it’s obvious that not only can this kid play, but he can play just about anything. The title track "Bright Lights" is a menacing rock song that is reminiscent of the Black Keys Rubber Factory days. “Don’t Owe You a Thang” is a rollicking blues number that is as true to the blues as it is present day. And the last two tracks are live recordings that showcase both Clark’s R&B side on “Things Are Changin’” and his incredible stamina and virtuosity on the epic 8 minute jam “When My Train Pulls In”.

Needless to say, talents like Gary Clark Jr. are rare. His guitar work is simply stated extraordinary, his composure and control beyond his years and a voice to match all the above. A full-length debut is expected early in the new year from Gary Clark Jr., but Bright Lights will tide us over for now.

Buy Gary Clark Jr.'s Bright Lights EP, XPN's Featured Album of the Week from Amazon.com. Your purchase that starts here, benefits WXPN.