Ridin’
Stony Plain, 2023
8/10
The two time Grammy nominee Eric Bibb returns with more folk and blues influenced songs, where current events and his own experiences shape these 15 well thought out tracks that welcome some incredible guests.
“Family” starts the listen with Bibb’s warm guitar and expressive singing in the soulful and powerful climate, and it isn’t long until he’s joined by Taj Mahal and Jontavious Willis for the indeed funky and playful “Blues Funky Like Dat”.
Elsewhere, the rhythmic and mesmerizing “Tulsa Town” uses drumming strategically alongside Bibb’s intricate guitar and vivid storytelling, while Amar Sundy accompanies him on the southern influenced and gritty “Got My Own”.
Much deeper on the back half, the live “Sinner Man” recruits Bibb’s string band for the flowing and lush interaction, and “People You Love”, a late album highlight, makes great use of Habib Koité’s presence in the dreamy and pretty demeanor of the timeless folk song.
Bibb’s family has a history in music, as his father, Leon, was a folk singer, and that tradition is being carried on with insightful wordplay, sincere songwriting and a very meticulous delivery.
Travels well with: Rory Block- Ain’t Nobody Worried; Ruthie Foster- Healing Time