Heroes of the Blues - The Very Best of Reverend Gary Davis

..with full intensity, powerful and electrifying, Rev. Gary Davis is a master of the guitar amongst other great bluesman of the genre, Davis stands alone aside from his religious song structure, an innovater on guitar and strong vocals, the rev. draws the listener right into the heart of the song... the songs featured here are some of the Reverend's best recorded 1930's and early 1960's sides, listening, it's not to hard to tell the time frame as the set rolls on, the audio is excellent throughout this sixteen song set from the Shout Factory label... notable songs: "Sampson and Delilah", "Twelve Gates To The City", "Death Don't Have No Mercy", "Candy Man", Davis does some fine instrumental work on the old blues standards, "Cocaine", "Can't Be Satisfied", and there's some prime banjo pickin' on, "Out On The Ocean Sailing"... Rev. Gary Davis, essential, educational blues listening for everyone and aspiring musicians... the "Heroes Of The Blues" booklet covers are not so attractive or photographic to say the least, the rev. more resembles a cartooned bad Leroy Brown than a bluesman, nevertheless, the liner notes inside are real informative covering Davis' life and career and included are the recording dates of each song... if you dig this dude, also check out Blind Willie Johnson.

Great quality CD, excellent selection of tunes. Reverend Gary Davis's star shines bright!

This is a fine collection of Davis' songs. Highly recommended.

One of the old time fathers of so-called "Mississippi Delta Blues",this man is the real meal deal. Simplistic, raw, old recording of a street musician who was master of a genre and trend setter for those who followed him. If you are a folk or blues singer and/or guitar player you MUST HAVE this album. It's a classic.

a wonderful collection of songs from the Great Garry Davis. Back in the day he taught them all including BOb dylan who went and sat at his feet.

The Reverend Gary Davis is one of the exemplars of the blues. Many of his songs have been picked up by other artists and groups. For instance, the Grateful Dead took his rendition of Samson and Delilah and made it one of their concert favorites. There are also many other blues and gospel songs to enjoy listening to. He sure plays the banjo and guitar with aplomb that preceded other great guitar players of the rock & roll and country traditions.

The singing, the lyrics, the playing. At times, the melodies and lyrics sound almost too simple, and then I realize that is the point, achieving something clear that resonates deep within. Reverend Davis's emotion and spirit also come through clearly, so that you feel his presence.

If you like black blues you will love this. The blind preacher at his best. He is in the same league with Eric Bibb, Son House and other legends.

I really like this collection of REverend Gary Davis, i wasn’t really familiar with his music, i heard version on the new Rory Block album i’m with the band, but i’d like to hear the real version. This is a good collection to have on your blues collection. He was the only legendary blues player i didn’t have in my collection. Buy this if you want one album of his best songs, it’s a great piedmont style guitar style guitar playing album !!!