Customer Reviews

Give in Kind

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I've never been much of a blues fan myself. Never really paid much attention to the music genera or venture into it. Until now that is. When I was first introduced to Guy Davis in concert one night with some friends. He is one performer that I've become strangely enthused about.

I am impressed with his talent not only as a musician but also as a song writer. He has a poetic way in capturing the emotional essence with so few words. Not to mention having a great voice, classic. Most songs exhibit a nice old-timey sound, which I think is where he shines the most. Whether it be the harp, washboard, guitar or banjo. This guy is truly an artist. He is a bit of an inspiration. Just have to appreciation his infectious, entertaining style and skill. Sometimes amusing, sometimes serious, always down-to-earth and rather unpretentious.

Honeydew Melon Rag, track number seven is a sweet guitar instrumental piece. Was an instant personal favorite of mine when he played it live in concert. Jappatowne is another favorite which I heard live and also prompted me to buy the CD. Although unfortunately the Jappatowne story intro (track 14) is a much shorter, edited version from what he performed live. Be sure to also listen to the unforgettable Layla, Layla, track number six with it's didgeridoo accompaniment. So unusual and fun.

A worthwhile purchase, recommended.

I love this album. I have listened to it a million times already, and have enjoyed every moment like it was the first. Guy Davis' guitar playing, voice and lyrics are quite intoxicating. The song "I don't know" was what got me hooked, after hearing it on the local folk music station. But the whole album definitely lives up to its name. He clearly composed this album with his full heart and soul, and the product is wonderful.

Guy Davis releases his fifth release on Red House Records following his excellent "Butt Naked Free". Despite the success of the last release Davis revamps the entire band line up with the exception of Mark Murphy on bass. Gary Burke replaces Levon Helm on drums, W'ali Muhammad replaces John Platania on electric guitar, Ken Whitely replaces T-Bone Wolk on mandolin, Zoe B. Zak adds accordion to the mix and Kevin Slattery now handles all piano and B3 organ. The personnel change can most notably be heard on songs like "Six Cold Feet Of Ground", which sounds more rounded and fuller than the solo style which persisted throughout Davis' earlier recordings. Overall, this CD retains the same quality as "Butt Naked", however, with the exception of one or two tracks, is not as upbeat. Sticking to Davis' predominately influences and acoustic roots, he opens with covers of songs written by Big Bill Broonzy and Fred McDowell. Those opening two tracks set the stage for some Davis originals which sound as though they were cut from the same sheet of timeless music. No real surprises here and nobody does this type of music better than Guy Davis.