Revered by his musician peers for his songwriting chops, Alejandro Escovedo has a knack for penning dusty little gems about heartbreak and disappointment. Escovedo approaches his craft with an easy touch, so his work tends to come off as unassuming and effortless. On his upcoming ninth album, "Real Animal," Escovedo turned to famed David Bowie/T Rex/Thin Lizzy producer Tony Visconti. Unsurprisingly, the new material sounds less singer/songwriter and more straight rock. Escovedo, Visconti, and the backing band draw on familiar hallmarks that call to mind everything from Motown to Tom Petty. After his recent recovery from health problems (and a subsequent record where he sounded humble exploring themes of mortality and redemption), it's nice to see Escovedo recharged again. His new stuff should start the evening off rockin', a great set-up for headliner Dave Matthews.

Escovedo plays Tuesday, June 17, 7 p.m. at Darien Lake PAC, 9993 Allegheny Rd, Darien Center. Tickets cost $39.50-$70. 232-1900.