Last updated 05:18, Friday, 28 November 2008

Sherman is looking good. He is in a great mood. He is in love and we felt it too.

Sherman Robertson playing Carlisle Blues Festival

Carlisle Blues Festival – Sherman Robertson

He slammed out his first numbers like a true Southern blues devil and, as is his usual style, he was ‘wireless’, ambling into the audience, flirting and flaunting his guitar at the women and strutting at the men.

He preached his gospel of new-found love, health and clean living and he looks great on it, while keeping his strong devilish blues and soul character.

Sherman is known for his prowess on the guitar, playing like it is a part of his soul. In the 1980s he played on Paul Simon’s innovative and hugely successful Graceland album, gaining much recognition.

He can slide effortlessly into zydeco, hard-swinging Texas electric blues, R&B and Louisiana swamp blues with a rock style. Robertson deserves to be on the short-list of the finest blues musicians.

His performance is potent with gutsy voice and sweltering guitar that delight his audience. He never fails to create a happy and rich atmosphere.

There was no sign of the audience flagging after almost 12 hours of wall-to-wall blues – we could have listened to Sherman for many hours more.

As usual Sherman overran his allotted time slot and gave a Texan Star performance.

You don’t get much cooler than this guy.

FI EXON