THE ROBERT CRAY BAND

 For decades, singer and guitarist Robert Cray has been in an odd position. He’s credited with bringing the blues back into the mainstream yet criticized for making the genre shiny and acceptable. His fans outnumber his detractors, though, and Nothin but Love reveals why. Produced by Kevin Shirley, the album is audacious and potent yet tidy and accessible. Cray and his band prefer their blues soundly framed and expertly executed. “Blues Get Off My Shoulder” arrives with urgency and a rush of horns and quickly settles into a groove. “(Won’t Be) Coming Home” and “Fix This” show Cray’s soul side, while “I’m Done Cryin’,” with its silky strings and weepy wail, serves as a reminder of the emotion Cray can muster. And of course, there’s the guitar. Cray’s axemanship remains economical, poignant and free of clichés. Nothin but Lovedoesn’t break new ground, but it’s honest and touching—nothin’ but real. –Jeff Tamarkin