"Need To Be Free" featured the driving bass lines of Dufrene propping up Luther's evocative vocals. "Meet Me In The City" is the their dynamic ode to Holly Springs, Mississippi and the good old days. NMAS is singlehandedly keeping a tradition and style of music alive that might otherwise sink into the swamp. The Hill Country Blues are born and bred in a place that doesn't receive a lot of national attention. While critics and fans venerate the Delta Blues and the forefathers of jazz the fact remains that an equally impressive and innovative style developed just a few miles to the North. These two brothers work tirelessly to spread the word and celebrate their institutions. "Mean Old World" saw Cody slapping out a tight beat before they continued with the sultry call to arms "Move Back to Mississippi" penned by NMAS collaborator and friend Anders Osborne. At one point early in the set Cody Dickinson emerged from behind his kit with his washboard draped over his shoulders; he treated us to a monumental solo before stepping back to his drum throne.
The trio reappeared for a five-song encore that included a "Freedom Highway," which Luther dedicated to the immortal Mavis Staples. They shut down an epic set of music with the Allman Brothers-esque "ML (Goin Home)." Simply put the North Mississippi Allstars don't disappoint. With today's oversaturated musical landscape it's easy to get bogged down in the "new." Don't forget that the North Mississippi Allstars are still out there, grinding it out for all us sinners. They bring a light and musical prowess to every stage they play that is unique and worth your attention.