ERIC BIBB

Master guitarist Eric Bibb approaches the blues as a living text. When he interprets a legend, as on his latest disc, Lead Belly’s Gold, it’s with empathy instead of reverence. Bibb spearheaded a roots revival with gospel-inflected blues that are more about redemption than meeting the devil down at the crossroads. Four decades into his career, Bibb keeps his playing simple and potent, and he makes walking in someone else’s shoes seem effortless. (Pat Moran)

Price: $36