SISTER SPARROW & THE DIRTY BIRDS

Like a snazzy dance band that refuses to wear shoes, this nine-piece soul-rock crew does red-hot and brassy ’60s soul with a scraggly blues edge. The scruffiness is down to the sibling duo of Arleigh and Jackson Kincheloe—Catskills natives who use voice and harmonica, respectively, to dredge up all the sorrow, joy and sexiness of the vintage music they love. Arleigh aspires to rasp like Janis Joplin, and if she lacks the late Texan’s desperation—which is probably a good thing—she remains a commanding centerpiece. The Birds play backwoods Kool & the Gang on “Too Much” and quote rapper Ol’ Dirty Bastard on “Dirt,” showcasing a funky fortitude that must kill in the clubs.