Live EP (Warner Nashville, 2017)

This six-song "Blake Shelton Live EP" seems a little odd. It's not as though Shelton had an especially noteworthy tour to document. Besides, at only six songs long, it's a relatively short document, anyhow. While it may be little more than a post-it note of a project, though, it also packs a powerful punch.

You recognize right away the large amount of enthusiasm the act of singing to an audience brings out of Shelton. When compared to the recorded versions of these hits, Shelton consistently tops his originals in this live setting. He sincerely sounds homesick during "Home," and performs "Honey Bee" like the true ham he is. And "Boys 'Round Here," which also features Pistol Annies reprising their recorded backing vocal role, was simply made to perform live. Furthermore, "All About Tonight" is a readymade concert opening song. The live version of the latter is performed here with obvious extra swagger.

From a consumer's point of few, one can make the case that "Blake Shelton Live EP" is an unnecessary purchase. And while it might be a long way from being something essential, it's nevertheless a minor treat.