“bibb_eric”
Eric Bibb & Needed Time
Spirit and the Blues
EarthBeat!
This is a very “soulful” mixture of blues, gospel, and folk played by what seems to be a very talented and motivated band from Sweden, featuring many guest musicians and varied musical instruments. Eric Bibb & Needed Time seem to be inspired by artists like Joan Baez, Bob Dylan, Earl Robinson, and likes, and Spirit and the Blues reflects these inspirations very well, intertwined with the band’s intended musical direction and meaning. Well-played guitar parts (ranging from straight 12-bar blues, slide, finger-picking, steel guitar, to bottleneck guitar) and wise use of other instruments (mandolin, harmonica, accordion, etc.) makes this album pleasant and charming. The songs are gospel, if not spiritual in general, carrying eternal or God-related themes; few songs (“Lonesome Valley,” “Tell Ol’ Bill,” “Where Shall I Be”) are traditional, re-arranged by the band, and most others are written by Eric, inspired by his faith and situations. If you like blues and other related-styles of guitar playing, check this one out. This band has an excellent bottleneck guitar player.
Cargo Records, 4901-906 Morena Blvd., San Diego, CA 92117-3432
