The Big $core

Recording information: Studio Chicago; Studiochicago. Illustrator: Dan Bellini. Photographer: Dan Machnik. As their name implies, Howard & the White Boys play urban blues for wine spritzer drinking yuppies, heavy on the palatable soul beats and party atmosphere lyrics and long on the fuzztone guitar solos. Deep blues this isn't, but well played it certainly is as tunes like "Leave the Lights On," "Judge," "It's All You," "I Need Some Cash" and "The Last Time" shows a band that's tight and swinging in their command of modern grooves. Buddy Guy makes a guest appearance on a tepid cover of Sam & Dave's "I Thank You," taking the wind out of an otherwise enjoyable little blues album for the dancing crowd. ~ Cub Koda