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Music Review - Eric Bibb - Dear America
It's a new release from a performer that appears in this area from time to time.
Really enjoying Dear America, the latest release from veteran bluesman Eric Bibb. It’s a continuation of his long-held commitment to promote social advancement and equality through his music and his message. Bibb has been at this for about five decades, and has earned two Grammy nominations and countless Blues Music Awards along the way. He is a talented, committed artist working to keep the blues flame burning, as well as a living link to the civil rights era.
“Whole Lotta Lovin” kicks things off in fine form with some blues, calypso and West African influences in the ringing over a sparsely beautiful backdrop of finger-picked and strummed guitar. “Whole World’s Got The Blues” takes us deep into blues-rock territory, without sacrificing Bibb’s lightness of touch. He’s assisted here by Eric Gales’ burning, restrained guitar which underpins Bibb’s rolling melodies to great effect. Steve Jordan’s drumming is a powerful addition as well. “Dear America” opens with a spoken-word intro with flutes that reminds the listener of Gill-Scott Heron, another trail-blazer in the socially active music scene.
There’s also some amazing backing support on this album including singer-songwriter Shaneeka Simon, who lends her considerable talents to tremendous effect, as does bassist Tommy Sims (who has performed with Bruce Springsteen and Bonnie Raitt). Additional contributions from Ron Carter, Chuck Campbell, Billy Branch, Glen Scott & Lisa Mills really makes this project a pleasure from start to finish.
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Bibb himself is a wonderful lyricist and composer. All the cuts on Dear America sound fresh and accessible, with enough depth and nuance to reward repeated listens. From intimate portraits to dramatic anthems, Bibb infuses them all with a highly personal, highly honest feel. With such talented players to back him up, this could never have been anything other than a fantastic set. What you’ll find here are thirteen memorable songs, charged with emotion but never hubris, delivered with love and in considerable style.
