They don't often get mentioned in the pantheon of important rock acts — and many critics dismiss them as trite — but Daryl Hall & John Oates made a significant imprint on two decades of pop (the '70s and, especially, '80s) and remain one of my personal favorites. Their impressive book of songs ranges in style from folk to disco to psychedelic rock, but the Philly-born duo did their best work when combining the soul music of their hometown with a post-Beatles rock sensibility: "Sara Smile," "She's Gone," "You Make My Dreams," "Private Eyes," "Kiss on My List" and "Maneater," to name a handful. H&O haven't placed a tune in the Top 40 since 1990, but to me they don't come off as purely a nostalgia act. The duo have continued to record, albeit without the oomph of a major label behind them. These days, they make their living on the road, playing upscale venues. At 62, Hall's soul croon is still a marvel, and the partners' vocal chemistry continues to thrive. H&O have played a few shows at Ruth Eckerd Hall, and each has been a beguiling greatest-hits set. No reason to suspect that to change.
Daryl Hall & John Oates, Wed., April 15, 8 p.m., Ruth Eckerd Hall. $79.50, $69.50, $59.50, $49.50. rutheckerdhall.com.
