The Black Keys play what can most readily be described as a classic rock and roll show. Rather than relying on intricate lighting and stage design, as many popular acts have begun to do, the Black Keys hold their audience with a strong performance and commentary. On Thursday night, the Turn Blue World Tour came to the Pepsi Center in Denver.

The show was made even more interesting by an unusual stage set up, with drummer Patrick Carney up front sharing stage with counterpart and lead guitar player Dan Auerbach. Touring with the Black Keys were musicians Richard Swift on bass and John Wood on keyboard. Auerbach started off the set simply with nothing more than a “hello” before Carney launched into their first song.

With the crowd stretching to the very top seats of the Pepsi Center, the energy was vivid as the backdrop let go on the third song to reveal a vast array of lighting behind the band. Auerbach wasted no time between each song, launching quickly into favorites from the Black Key’s new album, “Turn Blue,” released only six months prior.