The size of O’Neal’s career never matched his talent. Few husky vocalists have his depth of tone, and his phrasing is unpredictable enough to engage your mind as your body moves to the Flyte Tyme-winged R&B and your heart responds to the ballads he unapologetically milks. There are caveats to consider: Decades have passed since his Minneapolis Sound heyday of the 80’s and early 90’s; he lives in England now, keeping his name out via reality shows; and these four gigs over two nights have a holiday theme. But his return is noteworthy nonetheless. Wednesday + Thursday. 7 & 9 p.m.—Britt Robson
Alexander O’Neal
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