Eight Gigs: Monophonics

They're funky like Sly and The Family Stone, but burst with the high energy of Northern soul and early rock 'n' roll. Bay Area-based psychedelic soul band the Monophonics echo an old-school sound with a unique flair for modern audiences. A sometimes six-member lineup combines the usual guitar, bass and drums, with trumpet, trombone and keys for a punchier live-band appeal. In April, the band released its latest album, Sound of Sinning, influenced by the more psychedelic stylings of the '60s and '70s—think the Zombies—and the song “Promises,” led by Kelly Finnigan's rich vocals, makes for one soulful jam. 2708 J Street, www.monophonics.com.