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The Rev. Gary Davis, known variously during his career as Blind Gary, Gary Davis, Blind Gary Davis and Rev. Gary Davis, was a unique figure in the blues.He was a guitarist, singer and songwriter, who also played banjo and harmonica, born in Laurens, South Carolina, in 1896, and who, during his early career, was a leading exponent of the Piedmont style of blues from that region. He became an ordained minister, and moved to New York, where he became involved in the folk/blues revival of the 1950s and performed a style of blues which focused on gospel and faith themes, while still being authentic blues music. This 83-track 4-CD collection comprises releases on 78s through to 1949 on the ARC, Perfect, Conqueror, Melotone & Lenox labels, along with the tracks from the albums from 1954 through to 1962, “The Singing Reverend” on Stinson, “Harlem Street Spirituals” on Riverside , “A Little More Faith” and “Say No To The Devil” on Bluesville and “Pure Religion And Bad Company” on 77 Records. His virtuoso guitar technique was hugely influential on later post-war blues musicians. This collection bridges the two eras of his career, so is a fine showcase for the breadth of his talent and musical compass as a crucial figure in the genre.
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