Eric Bibb plays blues and folk with his own touch, and is one of t he most underrated acoustic artists making the rounds.

On this disc, an appreciative audience hears 14 songs delivered by Bibb, his guitar, and bassist Dave Bronze. The format allows Eric to show off his picking skills that we don’t always get to hear on his studio efforts. Cuts like “Needed Time” see him propel the song with a solo. The instrumental “Sebastian’s Tune” has a ragtime feel that showcases his playing. “Right On Time” is an original jump blues with a fingerpicked section in the chorus. Same goes for the stomping “I Heard the Angels Sing,” and the changes and jazzy feel of “Panama Hat” perfectly match the whimsical lyric.

Bronze is also allowed free rein – and comes up strong – on cuts like “For You,” a soulful tune with a fine solo.

Bibb is one of those guys we need to help keep acoustic blues alive. His performance and the reaction it draws from the crowd give hope that this music will stick around.