Kool & the Gang

Kool and the Gang take a cue from the High Lords of Protest Soul (Marvin Gaye, Curtis Mayfield and Stevie Wonder) and take on life and love in the downright disgraceful 21st Century. Don't run away -- even with an update of Gaye's "What's Happening Brother," the Gang keep things focused on tight, supple grooves and positive, inclusive vibes. All the old-school doubters out there may want to check out "It Is Was It Is," a number that actually balances slinky rhythms with a pro-empowerment, anti N-word lyric. Still Kool doesn't equal the band's finest moments, but it shows they're still a graceful RNB.