ERIC BIBB
in The Queens Hall, Edinburgh 16th May 2023
Eric Bibb is a renowned American blues singer-songwriter and guitarist who has made significant contributions to the world of music. Born in New York City in 1951, Bibb grew up in a musical family and was exposed to various genres of music from an early age. His father, Leon Bibb, was a folk singer, and his uncle, John Lewis, was a jazz pianist. These influences helped shape Bibb’s musical style, which is a unique blend of blues, folk, and gospel.
Bibb’s career in music began in the 1970s when he moved to Europe and started performing in various clubs and festivals. He released his first album, “Rainbow People,” in 1977, which was well-received by critics and audiences alike. However, it was his 1994 album, “Spirit and the Blues,” that brought him international recognition. The album was a collaboration with legendary blues musician Taj Mahal and featured a mix of original songs and covers of classic blues tunes.
Since then, Bibb has released over 40 albums and has collaborated with numerous artists, including Bonnie Raitt, Charlie Musselwhite, and Ruthie Foster. His music has been described as “intimate, soulful, and uplifting,” and he is known for his powerful vocals and intricate guitar playing.
One of the defining features of Bibb’s music is his ability to blend different genres seamlessly. He draws inspiration from traditional blues, gospel, and folk music, but also incorporates elements of jazz, reggae, and world music. This fusion of styles creates a unique sound that is both familiar and innovative.
Another notable aspect of Bibb’s music is his commitment to social justice and activism. Many of his songs address issues such as racism, poverty, and inequality, and he has been involved in various humanitarian causes throughout his career. For example, he has worked with organisations such as UNICEF and Oxfam to raise awareness about global poverty and has performed at numerous benefit concerts for various causes.
Bibb’s guitar playing is often the highlight of his performances, as he effortlessly blends traditional blues with contemporary styles. His vocals are also a standout feature, with a smooth and soulful tone that perfectly complements his guitar work.
In addition to his musical talent, Bibb is also known for his engaging stage presence. He has a natural ability to connect with his audience, often sharing stories and anecdotes between songs. This creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere that makes his gigs feel more like intimate gatherings than large-scale concerts.
Tonight in Edinburgh’s Queens Hall the setlist was a perfect mix of old favourites and new material, showcasing his versatility as a musician. He effortlessly transitioned from upbeat, foot-stomping numbers to slow, emotional ballads, leaving the crowd mesmerised. Eric Bibb is one of the finest black American exponents of acoustic blues that there is as well as being an engaging performer and rousing guitarist who is blessed with quite a remarkable deep, warm voice.
The godson of the late great Paul Robson, Bibb came onto the stage at the Town Hall Birmingham last night wearing his trademark hat and immediately showcased his distinctive voice and rhythmic guitar with the easy going Howlin’ Wolf’s Goin’ Down Slow, with just him on guitar he talked about the origins of the song and the way that it had been sung by both black and white performers since it was written in 1931 and the song took on extra dimensions because of his insights. ‘Goin’ Down The Road Feelin’ Bad’ with the whole band was wonderful, opening up the story of the share-cropper whose eventual slide had brought him to a bitter end. A master storyteller through his music, every song was precluded by an engaging anecdote. Like the fact that he brought three guitars because he could.
With A Dollar In My Pocket explained the true story of one of Bibb’s blues elders running away from a lunch mob in Mississippi. On one of Eric’s new songs off his 2021 album Dear America, Along The Way, a beautiful letter to his children Eric had this to say. “I wrote this one for my children, I wanted to tell them stuff that I thought I should have said to them earlier on in the journeys but um I was too busy playing”.
His intricate and effective guitar work was seldom overtly flashy on the likes of Silver Spoon, a song written about Bibb’s move from America to Sweden. In his live performances there is undoubtedly a passion and intensity which when combined with his beautifully penned lyrics, produces many goose bump moments.
Behind him were Michael Jerome Browne, an excellent Canadian singer-guitarist whose solo set had opened the show, plus drummer Paul Robinson, bassist “Level Neville” Malcolm and MD/keyboarder Glen Scott, producer of Eric’s latest album, Jericho Road. All top-notch they combined well, providing the perfect accompaniment to his guitar and vocals. The chemistry between the musicians was palpable, and it was clear that they were all having a great time on stage.
Overall, Eric Bibb’s live performance was a true testament to his talent as a musician and his ability to connect with his audience. It was a night that will be remembered by all who were lucky enough to be in attendance.
Review & Photographs by Stuart Stott
