5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
simply wonderful, June 25, 2004
This review is from: Living on the Hallelujah Side (Audio CD)
It's almost impossible for me not to smile while listening to this wonderful record. There are many times in fact, when I have laughed with joy and amazement at the pure, unadulterated music-making of this amazing man. 'Neighbor Gone Home' and 'I'll Be A Friend To Jesus' are among my favourites here, with the latter in particular having me in hysterics when Joseph pulls up abruptly at the high notes, leaving his friend Blooming Rosalie Roberts to carry the tune. All through the album Joseph's half-sung, half-grunted, half-mumblescatted vocals (a new term that fits, I think!) are just amazing and delightful. Trust me, you have never heard ANYTHING like the singing of Joseph Spence! It is absolutely outrageous!
For the uninitiated, Joseph Spence played guitar exclusively in something called 'Dropped D' tuning, and his beautiful, syncopated Calypso fingerstyle is inimitably great. He was a gem of a musician, and a true original. Joseph was not as young as he used to be by this time, but don't let that deter you. This is a wonderful album. Check out "More and More With Jesus", "I'll Overcome Someday", or "Where Shall I Go" for some wonderful Joseph Spence guitar performances.
This album is a complete blast of infectious, wonderful, guitar-and-voice simplicity. There's some kind of joy and delight that just comes out in Joseph Spence's music. It's unique, and something hard to explain; you just have to hear him. And you MUST hear him! The Book of Proverbs says that "A merry heart does good like a medicine." With this in mind I have no hesitation in recommending to everyone a good listen to Mr. Joseph Spence. His music and his spirit will do you a power of good. Absolutely unmissable!
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you? Yes
No
7 of 8 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Essential Recording, March 31, 1999
By A Customer
This review is from: Living on the Hallelujah Side (Audio CD)
It is impossible to praise Joseph Spence highly enough. He was an authentic original on the guitar and a one-of-a-kind singer. This is a great record, but then everything he recorded was wonderful. Not sure? Ask Ry Cooder, John Renbourne, Duck Baker, Stefan Grossman,etc.etc. All of these highly regarded musicians hold Spence in their highest estimation.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you? Yes
No
