The latest record from the Holmes Brothers reminds listeners what makes this longtime band is one of the best in the roots/blues business. This is old-time soul and modern blues.

There is the lament of “I Gave Up All I Had” and the kiss off of “Lickety Split.” The Brothers’ vocal harmonies, still based in the churches of their home in rural Virginia, have a carefully controlled emotion.

There is restraint in them mostly, but several moments they really reach deep and hit a tender spot. This mixes with the guitar and keyboard’s urban sound and the forward-pushing swing of their longtime home, New York City, to make incisive combination such as on “Soldier of Love.”

In the same way, songs such as “My Word Is My Bond” have old soul tendencies, but there is also a modern, slow burn stomp of “Drivin’ in the Drivin’ Rain.” The album ends with the first of a double punch with the defiant “Last Man Standing”—where the lyrics sing about how the song’s main character will be the one who sticks around for the woman he loves—but is also a metaphor for how this band has the will and strength to continue.

To finish in powerful fashion, the Holmes Brothers finally have done a studio version of their live masterpiece, “Amazing Grace.” The band takes their time here and allows everybody to stretch out and play.

It is simply beautiful, ethereal, and earthy at the same time and a great finish to a fine recording that will not be mistaken for anyone else.