Eric Johanson | Live In Mississippi Review

By Tom Faddis

Eric Johanson’s Live In Mississippi captures the energy and passion of his live performance at the Ground Zero Blues Club in Biloxi, Mississippi. Recorded on August 9, 2024, this album shows Johanson’s singing and playing in an authentic storytelling rock-blues setting that will resonate deeply with fellow blues fans.

Johanson’s journey as a blues guitarist and vocalist has been marked by collaborations with Cyril Neville and Luther Dickinson. Recording at the iconic Ground Zero Blues Club, a venue that has hosted legends like Charlie Musselwhite and Bobby Rush, adds a layer of historical significance to this live album.

Johanson’s guitar work throughout the album captures his language of traditional and modern blues techniques. His slide guitar on “Just Like New” is particularly a fine example of this, blending resonant tones with precise articulation. Vocally, Johanson delivers with authenticity, dynamic range, and passion to bring each song to life.

“Nowhere to Go” introduces us to the trio’s full tone. Johanson’s gritty guitar riffs and expressive singing are supported by the rhythm section of Terry Scott Jr, on drums and Will Repholz on bass. The trio’s driving beat immediately engaging the audience.

“Undertow” This song features a powerful interplay between Johanson’s guitar and the tight rolling rock blues of the rhythm section. Johanson’s guitar soloing has elements of rock blues and traditional blues.

“Just Like New” features Johanson’s slide technique, evoking the spirit of traditional blues while infusing modern harmony and band hits. The Johanson original reflects his sense of groove and understanding of the blues tradition, while his songwriting adds modern rock-blues flavors.

“Yellow Moon” is a reinterpretation of The Neville Brothers’ classic, Johanson injects vibrant energy and a unique arrangement. Johanson’s vocal tone matches the song’s funky blues guitar strumming pattern. His guitar solo shows his use of color tones and upper extensions.

“Galaxy Girl” has catchy tutti figures between the rhythm section and Johanson’s guitar. The trio’s chemistry allows Johanson’s vocals and exciting guitar solos to take center stage.

“I Walk On Guilded Splinters” is Johanson’s rendition of Dr. John’s classic, emphasizing his ability to infuse timeless pieces with his signature rock-blues style. The thumping bass and drums framing Johanson’s call and response voice and guitar work.

“Hard Time Killing Floor Blues” is a stripped-down acoustic performance with only Johanson and his guitar paying homage to Skip James, showcasing Johanson’s deep connection to the blues’ roots.

“Familiar Sound” focus on Johanson’s finger picking with old-school blues authenticity, highlighted by tasty bottleneck slide licks.

“Changes the Universe” is a well-sung and played rock-blues ballad that reveals Johanson’s mastery of vocal tonal variation. His guitar solo has emotional bends, well-placed rests, and emotive flashes of dexterity.

“Don’t Hold Back” closes the album closes with energy, featuring dynamic trio interplay and showcasing Johanson’s guitar virtuosity. Johanson pulls all the emotion out of his double stops and bends, putting the fuzz to full and letting the amp sing with its gritty tone.

The cohesion between Johanson, drummer Terry Scott Jr., and bassist Will Repholz is evident throughout the album. Their intuitive interplay and mutual responsiveness create a solid foundation that allows each member’s strengths to shine, essential for an authentic live blues experience.

Johanson’s genuine rapport with the Biloxi crowd is palpable. The live recording captures not just the music but the atmosphere, immersing the listener in the concert experience and highlighting the reciprocal energy between the performer and the audience.

Live In Mississippi is a very enjoyable contemporary blues outing showcasing Eric Johanson’s dedication and understanding of the blues genre. This album serves as inspiration and a benchmark of live performance rock-blues excellence.

Artist: Eric Johanson
Album: Live In Mississippi
Label: Ruff Records