Live performances are how most musicians prove their mettle, and on his latest CD, “Last Train To Nashville” (Telarc Blues), the Louisiana-born guitarist shows that he is at the top of his game both as a performer and a songwriter. Captured during a single night in Nashville during the spring of 2007, the set kicks off with “Night Train,” an electrically charged shuffle that sets the tone for the entire disc; Benoit has a strong singing voice and matching guitar skills, and he takes full advantage of that even in slower numbers. The bluesman is also well known for his activism in favor of the country’s wetlands, which are at dire risk—back in 2005, he and other fellow musicians (Dr. John among them) warned of the danger that a hurricane might bring to the area in case the levees broke—and that was well before Katrina’s onslaught. (Ernest Barteldes)
Buddy Guy’s Legends, 754 S. Wabash, (312)427-1190. September 26, 10:30pm. $15.
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