Less than 30 seconds into Nikki Hill's 2013 album, "Here's Nikki Hill," and you'll see why she gets trucks of praise showered on her — even Frank De Blase won't stop, saying she's "one of the best roots-rock singers I have ever seen," ranked up there with Wanda Jackson, Barbara Pittman, and Etta James. Hill has that classic R&B voice, purring sweet and growling loud over cool rock 'n' roll. It's soulful, fun, and will make you groove.

Nikki Hill will perform on Wednesday, June 3, at Downstairs Cabaret at Winton Place, 3450 Winton Place, presented by Abilene and The Record Archive. 8:30 p.m. $20-$25. downstairscabaret.org; nikki.studiozerozero.com.