Skip James Today!

by Skip James

Overview

The 12 sides that comprise Today! are among the best James would record after his rediscovery in the '60s. His playing may be a bit less intricate than that captured on his legendary 78s from the '30s, but his unique falsetto sounds no less troubled or haunting than before on this album's definitive performances of "Hard Times Killing Floor Blues," "Special Rider Blues," and one of James' few later compositions, "Washington D.C. Hospital Center Blues." Additionally, modern recording techniques offer a better aural rendering of James' unique guitar fingerpicking and piano playing, making this album an easier listen than the dim, scratchy albums of 78 transfers available under various titles. This is a must-have collection for all acoustic blues and James fans, as well as a fine introduction for curious listeners unfamiliar with the blues' most uncompromising, spooked visions. ~ Brian Beatty

Product Details

Release Date:	11/26/1991
Label:	Vanguard
UPC:	0015707921923
Rank:	201369

Tracks

1. Hard Time Killing Floor Blues
2. Crow Jane
3. Washington D.C. Hospital Center Blues
4. Special Rider Blues
5. Drunken Spree
6. Cherryball
7. How Long
8. All Night Long
9. Cypress Grove
10. Look Down the Road
11. My Gal
12. I'm So Glad

Album Credits

Performance Credits

Skip James   Primary Artist,Guitar,Vocals,Piano

Technical Credits

Skip James   Composer
Bruce Jackson   Liner Notes
J. Mayo Williams   Composer
Leroy Carr   Composer
Henry Thomas   Composer
Traditional   Composer