Raphael Saadiq, Thursday 17 March, Cedar Street Courtyard, Austin, TX

Raphael Saadiq had a stack of classic, classy rhythm and soul tunes and great singing voice (though a really quiet speaking voice) and was backed by a great-sounding and really tight band.
He really got the crowd going with a great block-party-esque performance, enhanced by way the stage were around and above the stage at the Cedar Street Courtyward.
The set had a really summery feel about it. The songs will sound great for a sunny afternoon in a park.
It sounded, and he performed, as if he could fill big venues on his own, making it hard to believe that he was playing all new material in a short set for a festival crowd, many of whom didn't know any of his material.