"I was a next-door neighbor of the wonderful gracious man as a child in the 1960's. He deserves far more recognition than he receives. He should have 40 albums available, not four. If you like unpretentious, honest acoustic blues, it doesn't get any better than this!"
Authentic Old Time Piedmont Blues
Todd E. Garland | Webster Springs, WV United States | 03/15/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Unfortunately, we'll never again have the opportunity to hear Mr. Jackson perform, at least not in this world. I did, however, get to see him in a very tiny theater in southeast Kentucky. Afterward he was available in the lobby talking about music, the church, his family. I rememember him as a gentle and gracious man. Moreover for such a great blues writer and performer, he was so humble. And yet he had a powerful presence when singing and playing.
This CD is a very good representation of his singing and playing style. If you're interested in very authentic blues, this is a fantastic example of the Piedmont genre. I highly recommend this disc from a beautiful, beautiful soul. God bless, Mr. Jackson. Maybe someday I'll get to play with you in heaven."
Living Treasure
Todd E. Garland | 04/30/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"John Jackson is an unparalleled instrumentalist, singer, and gentleman in the tradition of great blues men. It's evident in his music and in his demeanor. One should not miss the chance to see John Jackson perform or to listen to his recorded works. I consider myself lucky to have done both, and I will continue to do both when the occasion arises."
Excellent example of Piedmont style blues!!!
Todd E. Garland | 03/23/1999
(4 out of 5 stars)
"I was lucky enough to hear Mr. Jackson play this weekend at the River City Blues Festival in Marietta, Ohio. What an enjoyable experience! I was not really familiar with Mr. Jackson's recorded works having only heard a few cuts from this album. He is now in his mid-70's and after I began to listen to his live performance, I was reminded of another favorite guitarist, Jorma Kaukonen. Excellent live show...catch him performing if you get a chance.On this recording, all cuts were done in the mid to late 60's and are very well executed. You won't be sorry!!"
Brilliant music from a brilliant man.
Paul Thompson | 07/14/1998
(4 out of 5 stars)
"I had the honor of meeting John Jackson a few weeks ago, and on that occasion I also bought this album, a collection of tracks from his '60s sessions. I must say that the songs on this disc blew me away. Songs like Red River Blues, Black Snake Moan, Tombstone Blues and John's Rag all display his incredible guitar talent and (save for John's Rag) his very unique singing voice. I've seen him live, and this is VERY close to the real thing- perfection."