Eric Bibb Migration Blues (CD)

(2017/Stony Plain) 15 Tracks - Digipack - Bibb's new album follows his 2014 record 'Blues People' which was an exploration of the black experience in America and a celebration of the work of Martin Luther King. 'Migration Blues' considers the parallels between the black diaspora from the southern States in the 1920s and the current wave of migrations happening all over the world. Featuring Michael Jerome Browne on guitars, banjo, fiddle and mandolin and Jean-Jacques Milteau on harmonica. Bibb, Browne and Milteau are also the producers. As with 'Blues People' although the subject is a serious one the tone isn't preachy but a song like 'Prayin’ For Shore' is telling of migrants crossing seas and facing both the danger of the crossing itself and the uncertainty of what they will find at the other side as they strive to escape war in their own countries. The album's songs consider the many reasons for migration - war, drought, resettlement, work, persecution etc with everything being delivered in a stripped-down acoustic setting which allows Eric's wonderful voice to really stand out. Also included is an understated version of Bob Dylan's 'Masters of War' (with lovely echoing harmonica from Milteau) and also Woody Guthrie's standard, 'This Land Is Your Land' that includes Browne's melodic mandolin. The album closes with the traditional spiritual 'Mornin' Train' with Ulrika Bibb on backing vocals. A very consistent album that includes another highlight: 'La Vie C'est Comme Un Oignon'. A very well-conceived project that is beautifully played and sang and has some very moving songs about stories that need to be told!