The Black Keys and Gary Clark Jr. Rock Chicago at Huntington Bank Pavilion

Chicago, September 3, 2025 Show Review & Photos by Ernesto Raul Aguilar

Chicago’s Huntington Bank Pavilion came alive with a powerhouse evening of blues-infused rock, headlined by The Black Keys and supported by Gary Clark Jr. The evening kicked off with Clark delivering a tight, energetic set that moved seamlessly between blues classics and his own hits. Opening with a stirring take on Robert Petway’s “Catfish Blues/Maktub,” Clark and his band quickly established a groove-heavy momentum that carried through tracks like “Ain’t Messin ’Round,” “When My Train Pulls In,” “Don’t Owe You a Thang,” “Feed the Babies,” “What About Us,” and “Bright Lights.” The set balanced fiery guitar work with strong rhythmic drive, pulling the audience into the evening’s pulse. By the time Clark closed his set, the crowd erupted into a standing ovation, perfectly primed for what was next.

Photo by Ernesto Raul Aguilar

(IG: blacksheepimagery)

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When The Black Keys hit the stage, the energy shifted up another notch. They opened with “Thickfreakness,” “The Breaks,” and “I’ll Be Your Man,” immediately showcasing the tight, punchy blues-rock that has defined their sound for years. Dan Auerbach’s gravelly vocals and sharp guitar riffs paired perfectly with Patrick Carney’s precise drumming, creating a momentum that held the audience in its grip throughout the night. The chemistry between the two was evident in every riff and drumbeat, carrying the crowd from one high-energy moment to the next without missing a beat.

Photo by Ernesto Raul Aguilar

(IG: blacksheepimagery)

The Keys’ set spanned their catalog, moving effortlessly between hits like “Your Touch,” “Gold on the Ceiling,” “Wild Child,” “Everlasting Light,” and “Lo/Hi,” and deeper tracks including “Too Afraid to Love You,” “No Rain, No Flowers,” “Down to Nothing,” “Fever,” “Heavy Soul,” and “Howlin’ for You.” A playful nod to rock history came in the form of a cover of Canned Heat’s “On the Road Again,” while the encore, featuring “Little Black Submarines” followed by “Lonely Boy,” sent the crowd home buzzing. The set was dynamic, alternating between high-octane rockers and slower, blues-infused numbers, keeping the audience engaged and fully immersed from start to finish.

Photo by Ernesto Raul Aguilar

(IG: blacksheepimagery)

The Huntington Bank Pavilion itself provided a perfect backdrop for the night. Though the day had been mostly rainy, the skies cleared by showtime, a fitting twist for the “No Rain, No Flowers Tour.” The open-air design, and a visibly enthusiastic crowd, amplified the energy of both performances. Fans clapped, sang along, and danced throughout, creating a sense that the night was more than a concert; it was a shared experience, a communal celebration of live music and blues-rock at its best.

Photos by Ernesto Raul Aguilar

(IG: blacksheepimagery)

By the end of the night, Chicago had witnessed a masterclass in contemporary blues-rock. Clark’s set brought groove, intensity, and effortless showmanship, while The Black Keys delivered a focused, high-octane performance that spanned their catalog with precision and punch. Every note felt intentional, every riff hit with purpose, making the Pavilion pulse with energy. It was loud, raw, and unforgettable, a night that proved why these artists remain at the forefront of modern blues-rock and left the crowd already anticipating the next time these acts hit the stage.

FULL THE BLACK KEYS GALLEY