JC Brooks & The Uptown Sound 

Howl

Bloodshot Records

Street: 05.21

JC Brooks = Sam Cooke + Sharon Jones

You know, I’m a fan of groups that have a “throwback” or “revivalists” label, I just beg that the product you serve up stands tall and offers something stellar. Howl, the third album from Chicago soul revivalists, JC Brooks & The Uptown Sound, however, does not. Brooks voice at times sounds awkward and forced, most notably the higher pitch points. The best track is found when they depart from the soul and venture into indie territory on the Twin Shadow-esque “Security”. Overall, Howl is nothing to shout about—more like a halfhearted “meh.” –Courtney Blair