We start with some Big Bill Broonzy. The two most interesting songs I think are the two that deal with social political issues. I had heard the phrase "If you're white, you're all right. If you're brown, stick around. But if you're black, get back" before but I never knew there was song before I heard Broonzy singing Black Brown & White.
The social criticism is continued on the song When Will I Get Called To Be A Man. It is heartbreaking to think of all the things Broonzy and his people have done for their country and the complete lack of respect they show in return. He doesn't even get the simple respect of being called a man.
Then we move on to the blind Reverend Gary Davis who's songs focus more on playing and faith than social issues. He does a really cool cover of Motherless Children and I would be amazed if you stood still for You Got To Move.
After some east coast finger picking blues we move down to the south for some steel rag from Blind Boy Fuller. He plays a steel guitar in the style of Blind Willie McTell and other such rag, finger picking greats. Sometimes the cranking of the steel can be a little annoying but the power on the strings makes that inconsequential.
We wind out our mix with a pair of songs by Johnny Shines. Usually his music is a little too laid back and almost funky for my tastes. I prefer hard driving, raucus or finger picking blues which he manages for a pair of songs.
Hope you enjoy.
