Skip James – Skip James The Complete 1931 Paramount Recordings – Document Records DOCD-5005

Anyone who has ever taken the time to consider Skip James’ music would no doubt come away indicating that there is nothing like it, with his unnerving falsetto-laden vocals and spooky guitar style rendering him wholly unique in the genre.  These are distinctive, mysterious cuts originally laid down for the mighty Paramount Records imprint, chocked-full of expressiveness and pathos, with James’ aforementioned vocal design giving these selections a definite impression of earnest expression.  His was a pessimistic life viewpoint, it seemed, and even on the spiritual numbers found here, such is the case.  As singular as James’ guitar work and tunings are, his piano playing was as especially exclusive, framed in clipped and impactful designs.  James was truly idiosyncratic a bluesman; hence why he was not imitated.  These 18 tracks are blues creations of the highest order, and many of James’ finest blues constructions are found here.

Below are the running tracks of this essential CD.  This needs to be in any serious blues collection!

Song Titles

• Devil Got My Woman
• Cypress Grove Blues
• Cherry Ball Blues
• Illinois Blues
• Four O’Clock Blues
• Hard Luck Child
• Hard Time Killin’ Floor Blues
• Yola My Blues Away
• Jesus Is A Mighty Good Leader
• Be Ready When He Comes
• Drunken Spree
• I’m So Glad
• Special Rider Blues
• How Long Buck?
• Little Cow And Calf Is Gonna Die Blues
• What Am I To Do Blues
• 22-20 Blues
• If You Haven’t Any Hay, Get On Down The Road