If you’re looking for a reason to hate Jack Johnson, this isn’t it. After listening to Johnson’s first live album, En Concert, I like the acoustic son-of-a-surfer more than ever.

The CD includes all your favorite mellows live from various performances on the European leg of his 2008 Sleep Through the Static World Tour. Unlike his studio albums, En Concert allows room for Jack et al to stretch their musical prowess. From a vivacious edition of “Staple It Together” to a folksy duet of “Constellations” with Pearl Jam’s Eddie Vedder, Johnson shows why he’s better live.

Highlights on the corresponding DVD include a jam session with Ben Harper and an extended clip of a river surfing excursion in Munich. Scenes from various sold-out shows make it clear that the entire world digs Jack Johnson’s brand of chill.

Grade: A



En Concert is currently available.