Reviews
- Montreal Gazette, May 2006
Montreal Gazette - Praising Peace: A tribute to Paul Robeson
Thursday, May 11, 2006
LEON BIBB AND ERIC BIBB
Stony Plain/Warner
Paul Robeson (1898-1976), a magnificently-voiced singer, actor and human rights activist, receives a glorious tribute on this album from his friend Leon Bibb, and Leon's son and Robeson's godson, the blues artist Eric Bibb. Most of the album, including signature pieces like Joe Hill, the powerful arrangement of Ol' Man River and such traditional African American spirituals as Weepin' Mary and Home In That Rock are drawn from Robeson's repertoire. Robeson's recorded voice is briefly heard during Eric's poignant version of Deep River. Most of these songs are sung solo by either Leon, who remains in great voice at 84, or Eric. However they do a beautiful duet on Praising Peace, one of four moving originals that draw their inspiration from Robeson. ****1/2
--Mike Regenstreif
Eric Bibb opens for Etta James, July 1 at Salle Wilfrid Pelletier, Place des Arts
at the Montreal International Jazz Festival. Tickets $49.50 to $79.50.
(514) 790-1245.