Anyone who’s seen guitarist/vocalist Ethan Miller in action can testify that he’s a goddamn force of nature. The Howlin Rain leader launches familiar cosmic-Americana and jam-band elements into the red, forging songs that deftly balance power and beauty. He’s a soulful maximalist with both ax and throat, and his bandmates are road-tested warriors who make the rock of ages ago seem absurdly vital. Seattle quartet Head Band are ideal openers for Howlin Rain. They play A+ party rock that splits the difference between the Allman Brothers and the Velvet Underground, which is not a difference that’s split very often. by Dave Segal