In its flagship series, Eccentric Soul, the Numero Group of Chicago illuminates neglected soul gems through archival recordings and curated performances. This spectacular review reprises a storied tradition from the heydays of Motown and Stax: three vintage soul acts combine with one smoking band for a night of sweat-soaked entertainment.
The 1960s hit-maker Syl Johnson — a magnetic singer to rival Al Green — is enjoying a massive renaissance thanks to the Complete Mythology box set and a string of fantastic headlining performances. Curtis Mayfield protégés The Notations are a Temptations-style quartet with a rich four decade career, and Renaldo Domino is a best-kept-secret with a voice sweet as sugar. With vocal harmonies and backing by the Sweet Divines and their band, the authority and grit of authentic Chicago soul are revived at the Carolina Theatre.