Guy Davis, American bluesman and storyteller, shows the priceless value of acoustic blues on Juba Dance.
Although modern unamplified blues is not as prominent as it should be in the mainstream music scene, advances in the style are still being made on a regular basis. Guy Davis is at the forefront of the style. His storytelling capacity is similar to legends such as Son House; his instrumental proficiency is comparable to such guitar heroes as Elizabeth Cotten; also, his vocals are as deep and powerful as Howlin’ Wolf’s. With such skill, it is good to know that Davis is not simply doing what has proved successful for others in the past, but instead incorporating elements of old-time delta blues with feeling and style that is instantly recognizable as Guy Davis.
Davis’ version of “Statesboro Blues,” a standard of the style written by Blind Willie McTell, shows respect for the old-time blues greats, while also adding a new contribution. Guitar is fingerpicked with a thumping rhythm played in the bass, while a series of riffs are simultaneously played in the instrument’s upper register. This common technique is performed by Davis with metronome-like stability and immense forcefulness, making it unique. Deep and rough-edged vocals that drive this tune can make the hair stand up on your neck with their unmatched soulfulness.
“Love Looks Good on You” shows listeners a mellower side of Davis. Although relatively simple, this song breaks away from the standard 12-bar blues form heard on much of the album. A slow and intricate guitar part is matched tastefully with upper register harmonica work characterized by long, sustained notes. Though not a blues song according to the strictest of definitions, Davis is still able to portray the rugged soulfulness characteristic of blues that has never been sacrificed in any of his work.
Perhaps most inspiring thing about Davis’ musicianship is how much music he is able to make with just an acoustic guitar, a banjo, a harmonica and his voice. This minimalistic approach creates a sound that is anything but lacking. In fact, fewer instruments bring to light the intricacies, feeling and unique musical voice communicated by Davis. This non-convoluted approach that characterizes Juba Dance should be recognized as musically invaluable.