Detroit Cobras

In keeping with their tradition of being a more-blues-than-rock rock band, Motor City’s finest old school R&B revivalists return with their fourth full-length, Tied & True. On track with previous outings, this effort relishes in the velvety pipes and soulful delivery of singer Rachel Nagy, presumably prodded to perfection by the return of guitarist Greg Cartwright. Tracks such as "As Long As I Have You,” "If You Don’t Think” and "Leave My Kitten Alone” feel as brooding and weighty as finely executed. It’s street-smart rock’n’roll that doesn’t mind getting misty. Maybe a bit too misty, as the entire affair does have a lingering aftertaste of wanting. A few more upbeat songs would have helped improve the dynamics but as it stands, the three-year wait for Tied & True hasn’t been in vain.