CD Review
Eric Bibb
Natural Light
(Earthbeat R2 73830 or Manhaton Records Hatman 2011 in Europe)
by Gordon Baxter
Review date: March 2004
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Eric Bibb is often mentioned alongside the names of Guy Davis and Corey
Harris as one of the new guardians of the blues. Bibb has always kept close
touch with his folk roots, however, and included elements of Gospel in his
repertoire. His latest album, "Natural Light," sees Bibb branching out
further, whilst still remaining the distinctive Eric Bibb sound.
The first signs of the broadening of the style come on the opening
(original) "Too Much Stuff." A full band weighs in to deliver a nice slice
of funk, before they switch into a mellow jazz groove on "Home Lovin' Man."
The latter sounds a bit like one of the mellower tunes recorded by Louis
Jordan, although it was actually written by Roger Hubbard. Some muted
trumpet or clarinet would have added the extra icing to what is already a
very good cake. What many would consider normal Bibb-service is resumed
with "So Sorry," before the excellent tribute song "Tell Riley" which
contains the classic lines "An' mark my words/ He'll B.B. King some day."
Bibb remains pretty much on the money throughout, accompanied by regulator
collaborators, Dave Bronze (bass and production), and Janne Petersson
(keyboards). This time around he has also drafted in figures well known
among transatlantic blues aficionados, including Hubert Sumlin, Robbie
McIntosh and Henry Spinetti. He also gets excellent support on vocals from
Michele John-Douglas and Marion Powell for a fine rendition of "Higher and
Higher"--most closely associated with Jackie Wilson--which really grows on
you with repeated plays and brings proceedings to a close.
"Natural Light" is a very fine album that sees Eric Bibb continue to push
onwards and upwards, broadening his horizons as he goes. Bibb fans can buy
without any reservations. Those who want something a bit more than just
acoustic blues will also find plenty to enjoy here. Couple this with Guy
Davis' "Chocolate To The Bone" and the future of the blues looks to be in
pretty safe hands. Recommended.
www.earthbeatrecords.com
www.ericbibb.com
www.manhatonrecords.com
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