Here we have a new album recorded live
some years ago, back in 2006 to be precise. Now, a full decade down the
road, it sees the light of day, begging the question why has it taken so
long? For this is a release that captures the very essence of MacLeod
live: his near-droll, languid laid-back vocal delivery perfectly matched
by his soulful, deceptively understated fine resonator slide fretwork
and tasteful picking. As ever with this guy, the lyrics reflect his own
experiences, mini-memoirs for the most part, and echo his usual themes
of life on the road, love and hardship and simpering pleasures greatly
appreciated, with eight of the nine tracks self-written. The sole
exception is his extended – a full fourteen minute take – cover of Bukka
White’s old standard “Panama Limited”, which despite its length and
being a train-song – never wanes or bores. Instead it serves as a clear,
shining example of MacLeod doing what he does best and clearly hauling
the audience along with him down the tracks. Dubb, as he’s
affectionately known, is a repeated Memphis Blues Challenge award
winner, again picking up another gong earlier this year for his work.
With this album, where he grumbles about feeling under the weather
during the session, he illustrates just why he has a growing reputation
and following in the world of acoustic blues music. A positively
excellent album, a must for all lovers of the genre. Don’t let this one
slip away.
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