Search - Smoky Babe, Herman E Johnson :: Louisiana Country Blues

Two in one

04/24/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This CD combines the contents of two LPs from the 1960s. Smoky Babe is more extravert and basically plays a "happy blues". Herman Johnson is more sober and withdrawn. Both are very fine blues players. If you like good straight voice-and-guitar blues, this CD is a must."

The real country blues

nadav haber | jerusalem Israel | 12/02/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This CD features two true country blues musicians from Louisiana - each with a distinctive sound and style.
Smoky Babe has a strong and "smoky" voice. He playes strong rhythmic guitar, and is occasionaly accompanied by a harmonica player. On some of his songs he is joined by a woman singer - and the contrast between their voices is very attractive.
Herman Johnson is the heavier of the two. He prefers slow blues, where he gives every note its full meaning. His singing is spectacular and all his songs have a beautifully haunting quality. His lyrics are original and effective. I think he had the talent of the major blues people such as Son House, Charly Patton and Bukka White.
The sound quality is superb throughout (the recording is from 1961). I recommend the CD to everyone who searches for quality country blues."

Down Home Blues

Gary Daigle - Louisiana Blues Hall | Louisiana | 04/22/2001

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This album is the epitamy of Louisiana Country Blues. It is what you would have heard deep in the country of Louisiana in the 40's and 50's and is a true representation on innocent, straight forward, Country Blues."