Dear America
Self-Released, 2021
8/10
An album that truly encapsulates these trying times in America, the blues veteran Eric Bibb brings us a wise and eloquent depiction of the status quo, and he’s got several guest players to help him flesh out these very important songs.
“Whole Lotta Lovin’” starts the listen with soulful and intimate acoustic guitar as Bibb’s wise and comforting vocals unfold with much grace that takes help from Ron Carter, and “Born Of A Woman” follows with help from Shaneeka Simon on the warm and emotive duet that benefits from spirited guitar work and playful drumming.
The title track lands in the middle and recruits a hand clapping and bluesy climate that’s lyrically very insightful about the state of America today, while “Different Picture” puts Chuck Campbell’s skills on display in the rhythmic and bluesy album highlight. “Emmett’s Ghost”, another very powerful song, allows Bibb’s poetic and sublime singing to align with intricate acoustic guitar to tell a tragic true story of a young black man’s lynching for simply talking to a while woman.
“Love’s Kingdom” lands near the end and offers an upbeat pace of danceable song craft that takes aid from Tommy Sims and Glen Scott amid much bright melody, and “One-Ness Of Love” exits with Lisa Mills contributing soaring singing to the bare, string friendly and highly moving finish.
Now approaching 70 years old, Bibb has seen many different versions of America. Though he is understandably very saddened by much of what is occurring today, there’s also much hope and inspiration thanks to the revival of the ‘60s civil rights movement taking place right now, and Bibbs’ own timeless songwriting certainly is only contributing to our country moving towards a better future.
Travels well with: Lillias White- Get Yourself Some Happy!; James Holvay- Sweet Soul Song