 |
|
1. Lonesome valley
2. In my father's house
3. Needed time
4. I am blessed
5. Just keep goin' on
6. Where shall I be
7. Woke up this mornin'
8. I want Jesus to walk with me
9. You're gonna need somebody on your bond
10. Braggin'
11. Water under the bridge
12. Tell ol' Bill
13. Satisfied mind
14. Meetin' at the buildin'
15. Waltz
| QUOTE |
You don't have to be old to sing great blues... just talented, enthusiastic and committed. Eric Bibb and his wonderful backing band - Needed Time - do full justice to the record's title, capturing all the sadness, joy and stoic enthusiasm that gospel based blues stand for. The driver behind this wholly satisfying album from this still young bluesman is a belief in the power of music to convey emotion... in this case, his conviction in the redemptive power of Jesus. If that puts you off, then you're missing a real treat. You don't have to be a "believer" to enjoy this record you just need to believe that he means what he says because it's his infectious enthusiasm to his cause that makes this album so effective. Featuring marvellous finger-picking steel guitar and beautifully laid back vocals it's packed full of excellent songs, many of which are based on the group's interpretation of traditional blues/gospel standards. But... what lifts it firmly into the 5 star category are two quite stunning tracks: "Where Shall I Be" - a superb two minute slice of unaccompanied guitar playing - and "Tell Ol' Bill" - one of the most moving songs ever recorded, with its heart-breakingly sad lyrics, wonderful mandolin break and beautiful acoustic guitar playing it's as close as you'll come to the essence of pure blues. This reflective and joyous album makes you feel good and sad at the same time and... in the end, that's exactly what this music is all about. |