Etheridge is the golden thread running through so many projects of the last 50 years that it’s all too easy to take his presence for granted.

But if the new kids on the block grab our attention, we’d also be foolish not to celebrate those who have brought so much pleasure in so many formats over so many decades.

Blue Spirits is not Etheridge’s most headline grabbing lineup, like Soft Machine, but as an organ-based trio, oriented but not limited to the blues, it’s among Etheridge’s more personal, more intimate of groups. The tone is set by the gospel blues of ‘A Distant Voice’. Long-time compatriot Whittaker holds down the pulse with his understated chordings, while even at this most stately of tempos, Double keeps the momentum fresh.

Of course, Etheridge can go rockier as on the Lukather-edged ‘First Moves’, while there’s also a moving tribute to Jeff Beck with an un-adorned ‘Cos We’ve Ended as Lovers’. If you only know Etheridge from his light speed Zappa recreations with the Zappatistas, then the tasteful reflection of the likes of ‘Soul Eyes’ will make you think again. A welcome treat for the guitar hero’s legion of fans.