A review of the latest blues CD, Sisters and Brothers

Eric Bibb, Rory Block & Maria Muldaur
Sisters & Brothers
(Telarc Records 2004 CD-83588)
Pamela L. Dow

“This Blues Trio Cooks Up A Storm ”
by Pamela L. Dow

What do get when you place three accomplished blues artists inside a comfortable
recording space, slowly combine their individual talents, add three seasoned band members
and let simmer? You’ve got the recipe for the new release, Sisters & Brothers(Telarc
2004), featuring, Eric Bibb, Rory Block and Maria Muldaur. The album is a celebration of
their musical journey and the bond shared as blues musicians. Their initial steps began in
the 1960’s, firmly rooted in folk music at the peak of its popularity. During that time, all
three became captivated by the sound of acoustic country blues. Their attraction continued
to grow, feeling deeply connected to the music beyond just simple fascination. Calling it
home, each artist built a musical foundation in traditional country blues. They selected
different areas within the genre to reside, reflecting their individual style. After many years
of hard work and dedication Bibb, Block and Muldaur enjoy successful solo careers,
representing their distinct segment of the blues.
Sisters and Brothers is a dream come true , reuniting three talented performers who
happen to be old friends. Bringing their own unique ingredients to the table, they created a
delicious banquet of blues entrees. There’s 13 tasty tracks, covering a variety of styles to
satisfy any appetite. This threesome cooked some savory blues selections, from country
and gospel, to folk and jazz. A full serving of genuine emotion and memorable
performances. Albums with an assortment of styles from a specific genre as diverse as the
blues, may sound chopped or tossed together. You won’t find anything thrown together
on this new release. Sisters and Brothers is a perfect example of how an album, covering
different styles within a specific genre is suppose to sound. Each track blends smoothly in
a natural progression, the thoughtful grouping of certain styles gives the recording a
cohesive transition throughout. A true testament to the artists, the band and especially the
producer Randy Labbe.
Sisters and Brothers has a spiritual theme, but it certainly doesn’t preach. Instead, you’ll
find a positive, uplifting tone, touching the human spirit. It delivers a clear and simple
message of unity and brotherhood, the importance of giving and being there for one
another. In a world of uncertainty and fear, the message here is needed now more than
ever. The opening track, is an accapella version of the gospel standard, “Rock Daniel”. A
call and response tune with Rory Block singing lead, Eric Bibb and Maria Muldaur
providing steady vocal support. Next, Bibb takes the lead on this shuffle tune, “Don’t Ever
Let Nobody Drag Your Spirit Down”. His smooth, soulful, R&B style really shines, the
emotion level in his voice slowly rises on every verse. Muldaur jumps in for a verse with
her sassy vibrato, then returns with Block singing chorus. Chris Burns tears up the ivories
with great riffs and an excellent solo. “Get Up Get Ready”, finds Muldaur at her best on
this swing tune. She drives home the message with her exuberant, sultry vocals, Block
adding some jazzy guitar riffs. Michael “Mudcat” Ward on upright bass and Per Hanson
on drums, stay front and center as Muldaur leads the way. You can’t help but sing along
to this one. The albums finest duets come from Block and Muldaur, their first is the
Withers classic, “Lean On Me”. Block delivers a strong, soulful lead, as Muldaur joins in
with warm, soaring harmonies. Their duet version of this R&B favorite, adds more depth
and harmony without veering too far from the original. Their second duet is on a Block
original, “Travlin’ Woman Blues”. Both woman turn up the heat, each bouncing off the
other with a healthy dose of steamy, sultry vocals. Burns piano keeps the fire burning on
this honky-tonk tune, tickling the ivories with a sizzling solo. This is one of the albums
best tracks, including, “Gotta Serve Somebody”. Bibb gives this Dylan spiritual a fantastic
ride. His smooth as silk voice sounds a bit scratchy, even gritty at times when placing
emphasis within a verse. Bibbs slow and soulful variation to this spiritual, adds an
authoritative aspect to the original. Block and Muldaur’s background vocals sound like a
Sunday morning choir, as they echo the chorus. Bibb also exercises his wide vocal range
with deliberate emotion. This interpretation is powerful, he’ll get your attention without
letting go till the very last note. The final and title track, “Sisters and Brothers” is an
uplifting gospel tune. Each voice wraps around the other in waves of warmth and comfort.
It’s really a shame, being the only track where they sing together as a trio.
Sisters and Brothers is a dynamic collection of blues. There isn’t a bad track to be found,
each one taking you in a new direction. This threesome gives their very best, never once
overshadowing someone else. Each artists expressive originality truly compliments the
other, highlighting their strengths and creativity. This trio opens the door to a different
side of the blues, the hopeful, uplifting, inspiring side. You’ll be pleasantly surprised just
how infectious this recording becomes, as you play it again and again. It’s a genuine “feel
good” album with lots of toe-tappin’ energy. I highly recommend you dive right into this
one.

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www.telarc.com

(C) 2004 P. L. Dow