Howard & The White Boys
The Big $core
(ECD 26103-2)
This Chicago ensemble plays hard on The Big
$core, their third CD release. The electric guitar is definitely the instrument of choice
for these gentlemen and they know how to utilize the hard driving axe work to good effect.
The band has a three-dimensional, unique sound and the album showcases laudable
compositions. Each of the members wrote songs for the release, and all but one of the
tracks are original. The one cover on the record, the Hayes and Porter tune "I Thank
You" features guest vocals and guitar by Buddy Guy. This is a tight innovative band
with a ferocious edge. When guitarist Rocco Calipari attacks a solo, he literally pounces
on it; knife between the teeth, Tarzan killing a man in a lion suit style. There are hints
of the aforementioned Buddy Guy, Robert Cray and a strong undercurrent of funk and soul in
his sound that propels his riffs from standard to hardcore.
Check out what I'm talking
about on tracks like "Judge." Vocalist/bass player Howard McCullum handles the
voice chores with sanguine characteristic refinement. There is outstanding harp work by
Dan Bellini on tracks like "Trouble Follows You" and "You'll Come
Back." This release has a lot going for it. If you enjoy blues of the hard driving,
funk encrusted, soul-drenched variety, then you should definitely plop down some
hard-earned dinero and purchase this album. You and your ears will discover that Howard
and the White Boys are a hale and sturdy musical outfit.
- Bill Fountain -
Southwest Blues CD Review - June 1999
Current Reviews - 1999 Reviews
- available at out store
