Tab Benoit Friday, May 23, at the State Theatre

Live performances are how most musicians prove their mettle, and on his latest live CD, Last Train to Nashville, Louisiana-born guitarist Tab Benoit shows that he is at the top of his game. Captured during a single night in Nashville, Tenn., in the spring of 2007, the set kicks off with “Night Train,” an electrically charged shuffle that sets the tone for the entire disc. Benoit has a strong singing voice and matching guitar skills, which he takes full advantage of even in slower numbers. The bluesman is also well known for his activism in favor of the country’s wetlands, which are at dire risk; back in 2005, he and other fellow musicians warned of the danger that a hurricane might bring to the area in case the levees broke—and that was well before Katrina’s onslaught. Tab Benoit performs at 9 p.m. at the State Theatre, 220 N. Washington St., Falls Church. $21. (703) 237-0300.