Search - Mississippi John Hurt :: Dc Blues: Library of Congress Recordings 2

An important collection of John Hurt recordings

J. Mercik | Hartford, CT United States | 09/05/2005

(4 out of 5 stars)

"If you are newly interested in Mississippi John Hurt and looking for a good musical intro to his music, I dare say that this recording may not be your best choice; recording quality and performance quality could be better. The Vanguard "Complete Studio Sessions" 3-CD set might well be a better intro to the music of John Hurt.



If however you are a serious John Hurt fan, then this 2-CD set (previously available only in Europe) would be essential to your collection. Some songs found on this collection are not available elsewhere. In addition, some versions of previously available songs (guitar arrangements, keys, and lyrics) are different on this recording. As usual, the performances are always charming.



Moreover, this CD provides an unvarnished picture of how Mr. Hurt was playing, right at the very beginning of his "rediscovery" period circa 1963. His technique is not nearly as smooth as it was to become just a year or so later. On some songs, the guitar is out of tune; I know this doesn't sound like a 4-star recording per se, but, for the John Hurt afficionado, it really adds to the total picture provided by the man's recorded legacy. And the other thing too... he was such an interesting fellow.... it's great to hear an occasional verbal comment or two made before and after takes.



In short: I have been listening to this guy for 40 years, and it sure is nice to encounter another batch of recordings from MJH."

Another Great, Great Album

Jarmbru | Knoxville, Tennessee | 03/09/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Been listening to John since the mid 60's. Love the guy, and study and play his tunes for no reason other than the pure joy of it. Recently picked this up. Wow! Until I heard these recordings, I would positively tell you that "Today!", produced lovingly by Patrick Skye, was absolutely the best Hurt album ever. Now it has some competition. This album brings out new aspects of Hurt. I particularly liked Disc 2. You should do yourself a favor and get this."