In almost diametrical opposition to the raw, boisterous styles of other Delta bluesmen of the same period, Mississippi John Hurt sings and plays in a quiet, understated, and frankly beautiful manner. Whereas Charlie Patton and Robert Johnson impress with pyrotechnically rhythmic fretwork and gutsy, dramatic vocal performances, Hurt's deft, strictly metrical guitar style and hushed but nuanced and sensitive voice dazzle in their own way. A farmhand in Avalon, Mississippi--a town of less than 100 people--Hurt spent the evenings of the '20s playing "household music," music intended only for the entertainment of family and friends and not for commercial gain. There is no way Hurt could have imagined the impact his music would have on the '60s folk revival movement or the significance and longevity that his achievements would enjoy. 1928 SESSIONS, issued by Yazoo with astonishingly clear sound, is arguably the finest document of Hurt's music. Shifts from traditional blues ("Avalon") to church music ("Blessed Be The Name") and such rags a "Stack O'Lee Blues" vary the tempo but never disrupt the gentle, homespun atmosphere. More textured works, such as "Frankie," spotlight Hurt's accomplished accenting technique on guitar. 1928 SESSIONS is an essential addition to any blues collection.

• Genre: Pop
• Format: Vinyl
• Released: 08/05/2016