Let’s test your knowledge of hard rock.

True or false: “Putting It Straight” by Pat Travers is one of the most excellent hard rock albums of all time.

If you said “false” or “Who?” or “Can’t be better than Aerosmith,” then you KNOW NOTHING!

If you answered correctly — True — you probably already know Travers brings his band Friday to Old Saybrook and The Kate. And you’ll also know that, in addition to “Putting It Straight,” Travers has several amazing albums.

Now for some pontificating:

While Travers’ songs “Snortin’ Whiskey” and “Boom Boom (Out Go the Lights)” without question made him skads of money, your correspondent feels they’re sorta gimmick tunes that detract from the overall majesty of his catalog.

You’ll hear them at the show, of course, and probably a few blues covers. I wish he’d ditch those and make sure to play “Getting’ Betta,” “Life in London” and “I’d Rather See You Dead.” And don’t forget “Stevie,” “Makin’ Magic,” “Heat in the Street,” “Crash and Burn,” “Makes No Difference,” the recent and fine “The Art of Time Travel” and, in memory of his late visionary bassist Mars Cowling, “Hammerhead.”

Pat Travers Band, 8 p.m. Friday, The Kate, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook; $44; (860) 510-0453.