The Holmes Brothers represent the very best in roots music. They play a mix of R&B, soul, gospel and blues that’s authentic and powerful, timeless and true. The solid steady funk of “You’re the Kind of Trouble,” the light New Orleans gumbo of “Something Is Missing” and the smooth R&B balladry of “I Saw Your Face” present a veteran band yielding to no current trends or fashions and playing to their strengths. “Living Well Is the Best Revenge” is perhaps Wendell Holmes gathering his strength after a recent battle with cancer. Joan Osborne produces and adds a few back-up vocals, but mostly she ensures the music keeps its integrity intact. The often covered Don Robey number and Johnny Ace hit single “Pledging My Love” is given a sympathetic rendition, while the Beatles’ “I’ll Be Back” is redone as a straight R&B number. “Rounding Third” kicks into juke-joint mode. No matter what you throw at the Holmes Brothers, they send back no nonsense, straight-shooting soul music.