The Black Keys are back after a five year hiatus that included solo work and a run with the Arcs from singer/guitarist Dan Auerbach while drummer Patrick Carney produced on albums for several artists. The duo who broke out big with hits like ‘Gold on the Ceiling’ and ‘Tighten Up’ and worldwide acclaim in the process as one of the biggest alternative bands of the 2000’s are cued up for a big year with more new music expected and some shows ahead. They released their first new single in five years today, it’s called ‘Lo/Hi’.

The track has the band’s swerving blend of soulful rock with rousing backing vocals and lyrics that project the bi-polar emotions of the general human existence.

Check out our 2015 session with Auerbach in the Arcs in our old digs at the Merchandise Mart. It’s touching to see Richard Swift performing here with Auerbach. Swift passed away last year. As a multi-instrumentalist, Swift contributed to music from the Black Keys, the Shins, and more.