Mississippi John Hurt was the real deal, the complete package. This recording will soothe you, move you and groove you all at the same time. It's easy to see where these modern day poseurs got their ideas (jack johnson, john mayer et al.). Problem is, they can't hold a candle to this stuff. Today! won't disappoint.
October 24, 2005 |  | For a man past seventy... |  |
... Wow! What a great disc, country blues at its best. The sweet, Delta-hued voice contrasting with the Piedmont-style guitar in New York City, performing originals and traditional songs with a passion so unique. One of my thirty favorite albums, and the only full album Mr. Hurt saw released in his lifetime. Dig that cover, too... simplistic elegance.
December 22, 2003I've been listening to this album for over 30 years, and I find myself coming back to it time and time again, both as a guitarist and as someone who loves to listen to good music. I believe this is John's very best, lovingly produced by Patrick Skye who deserves very high praise for the excellent job he did.
I can't begin to say enough good things about this album. January 22, 2002
| | | Contrary to what was said in the previous review... | |
Mississippi John Hurt died in 1966 or at the latest, 1967. For my money there is no album (now CD) more satisfying than Today!
February 15, 2001| | | Rediscovered Bluesman at His Best | |
Back in 1973, the days of real radio, someone played a tune named "Pay Day". Gentle, intricate fingerpicking in the Delta blues style, yet with a tone of humor and sexual maturity. From that point the man had a fan. Turns out John Hurt had some popularity in the late 1920's (I have a recording of his from 1927); and then he vanished. In 1971 he was "rediscovered", having been living quietly in Mississippi. Over sixty years old, he went on tour (including major universities) and recorded 'Today'; his finest studio work. While other recordings are live and/or with a backing guitarist, 'Today' is Mississippi John alone and blazing. Listen to "Talking Casey" and tell me how many guitars you hear (hint:he was alone and there was no over-dubbing). If you want to cheer up, calm down, get funky or just hear an artist in top form ply his craft BUY this! (Note: I paid twenty bucks for Japanese virgin vinyl in '74 - now look at the cost of the CD).
October 27, 1998More reviews at Amazon.com ...
