Eric Bibb – Rory Block - Maria Muldaur - Sisters & Brothers (2004)

Some might say that Maria Muldaur, Rory Block and Eric Bibb are as unalike as they are alike. But it's their "unalikeness" wrapped into their likeness that makes this recording something special. This album plays like a joint effort of three old friends having a jam session of sorts. Its totally relaxed, yet full of fervor, wit, and definitive blues/gospel singing. Some of the standouts are Block's version of Bill Wither's "Lean On Me" with great harmony from Muldaur, Bibb's take on Dylan's "Gotta Serve Somebody" and Muldaur's "Bessie's Advice" (cowritten with Bibb). That's just the icing. There's plenty more including two of Block's standards "Rolling Log" and "Maggie Campbell" where one gets to hear her wonderful guitar playing which sounds as fresh as ever. Bibb's languid, bluesy take on "Little Rain" is right on the money! Things close with Muldaur performing one of her old chestnuts, "My Brothers and Sisters". At the end when she cries out "Hallelujah..Thank Ya!..Thank Ya!" one knows that they've just experienced three great talents doing what they were born to do! If you're a fan of music at its most basic and stirring, this recording is a must!

Please note that this is an old but good rip (without log), made with an old version of EAC, and coming from my archives on external hard disc.

Personnel:

Eric Bibb - vocals, guitar
Rory Block - vocals, guitar
Maria Muldaur - vocals
Per Hanson - drums
Mudcat Ward - double bass, upright bass
Chris Burns - piano, Wurlitzer piano, Wurlitzer organ

Tracklist:

01. Rock Daniel
02. Don't Ever Let Nobody Drag Your Spirit Down
03. Get Up Get Ready
04. Lean on Me
05. Bessie's Advice
06. Good Stuff
07. Rolling Log
08. Gotta Serve Somebody
09. Travelin' Woman Blues
10. Little Rain
11. Maggie Campbell
12. Give a Little More
13. My Sisters and Brothers

Sound Quality: 9/10