concert_goer | Bob Margolin and Bob Corritore

An acoustic album by two remarkable bluesmen. Margolin wrote seven new songs for it, Corritore added his own instrumental, and the Bobs also decided to record a few covers. The most notable of those is It Makes No Difference by The Band. Margolin was part of Muddy Waters' band when they performed that very song at the original Last Waltz concert, which makes the choice especially meaningful. This track also features guitar and vocals from Jimmy Vivino, known as the leader of the house band for Conan O'Brien. The instrumental work on the album is gorgeous, with slide guitar and harmonica blending beautifully. There's clear chemistry between the two Bobs, though I couldn't quite connect with Margolin's vocal style. That's why I like Corritore's breathtaking instrumental Salt River Stomp the most. The album closes with tunes by Muddy Waters and Sonny Boy Williamson the First. If you like the vocals presented here, it will be a top-notch acoustic blues disc for you.