Ever since his days in the Paul Butterfield Blues Band, Elvin Bishop has been one of the most enjoyable guitar players around. His stuff rocks, stomps and thoroughly burns down the barnyard.

He's not a stern-faced traditionalist. Although he's locked into the blues form, he brings an original slant to the music -- the opening cut on the set "Stomp" features one of the best blues accordion solos you're likely to hear.

Booty Bumping was recorded live in Constable Jack's in Newcastle, California, with a seven-piece band, and they cook. They offer a set of both old and new material and each musician gets plenty of room to stretch out in solos. "Stealin' Watermelons" is a six-minute romp featuring both Bishop and Mike Schermer on guitar solos and Steve Willis on piano.

Bishop is a generous band leader, determined to showcase not just his talent but the talent of all of his musicians. In addition to his own lead vocals, three members of the band get turns at singing lead; the tactic of mixing it up among the musicians ensures the disc stays fresh and alive all the way through the set. You never feel a sameness setting in.

Here's what's going to happen: when friends come over to the house, you're going to find yourself digging out this disc, putting it on and saying continually, "Listen to this!" Your friends will be glad you made them listen.