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When you’re a workhorse who plays 250 shows a year, it only makes sense to release a live album or two. Night Train To Nashville is Louisiana Bayou bluesman Tab Benoit’s second to date – his 11th release under his solo moniker – and it succeeds on every level.
The well-paced, high-energy Night Train captures not only the soulful grit of Benoit’s vocals and his colourful, nuanced guitar playing, but also the fabulousness of his band, Louisiana Leroux, and guest musicians Jim Lauderdale, Jimmy Hall, Kim Wilson and others. Standout tracks include Moon Comin’ Over The Hill, with its lovely snare-roll shuffle, Lost In Your Lovin’, an R&B-?tinged ditty with nimble guitar solos, and harp-heavy Stackolina, about a woman who’s only gettin’ meaner. A hot and sweaty feel-good addition to any summer soundtrack.
Tab Benoit hits Kew Gardens for a free show as part of the Beaches Jazz Festival Sunday (July 27).
