First things first: don’t get their name wrong. It is the entire M.S.G.-The Acoustic Blues Trio. Some folks affectionately refer to the Hampton-based trio simply as M.S.G.

So who is this group? Jackie Merritt (harmonica), Miles Spicer (acoustic guitar), and Resa Gibbs (vocals and percussion) comprise the trio. They are purveyors of traditional Piedmont blues, and their full-length CD, Meet Me in the Middle, is as authentic in style as those artists they name as influences: Etta Baker, Archie Edwards, and Cephas & Wiggins.

Meet Me in the Middle is a stylish mix of originals and covers. The simplicity of the production is perfect in their case. It allows each instrument to ring true and clear as if the listener is experiencing an intimate live performance in the living room.

The soulful, passionate, sometimes soaring voice of Resa Gibbs provides the real magic on this album. The highlights include "The Home Coming Song" and "You Don’t Know My Mind." They also indulge in an interesting arrangement of the old-time classic "Frankie and Johnny."

M.S.G.-The Acoustic Blues Trio is an authentic gem, as much blues as Americana.

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