Shanda & the Howlers - It Ain’t Easy (Rum Bar)

Rock & roll has evolved far beyond its origins, as well as it (and any art form) should. But no matter how much many of its iterations innovate, inspire or irritate, it’s good to go back to the well once in a while and drink deeply. Las Vegas quarter Shanda & the Howlers grab a gallon of early-60s Motown and another of 50s rock & roll for a walking, rocking time capsule on third album It Ain’t Easy. Aided by extra players on horns and vibraphone, “Miles and Miles” and “Whatcha Gonna Do Now” hit that sweet but jumping Detroit groove, while “Getaway Driver” and the title track rock up the blues in timeless fashion. “Won’t Be Back No More” takes a more sophisticated approach, almost dipping into pre-rock pop, but “Want You Anyway” drops any pretense of slickness and just rawks with abandon. Leader Shanda Cisneros has a vocal tone that slides right into any of these stylistic moves with ease, and her Howlers back her up with skill and verve. The band may claim It Ain’t Easy, but they sure make it look like it is.