Rare Country Blues – Various Artists – Complete Recorded Works (1929-1943), Vol. 2

Many of the artists on Rare Country Blues, Volume Two may be familiar to dedicated blues collectors. However, most made little impact when they first recorded. Record labels often failed to recognize their talent, and A&R executives focused on trends that didn’t always match public taste. As a result, some musicians never returned to the studio.

Despite their lack of recognition at the time, the recordings in this collection prove their musical worth. These tracks highlight raw talent, powerful storytelling, and the authentic sound of early blues.

Rare Country Blues Vol 2  A Unique Opening and Powerful Performances

The album begins with John Byrd and, possibly, Mae Glover performing as Rev. George Jones and Congregation. Their track Honey in the Rock sets the tone, leading into a striking prayer from Sister Jones:

“Our Father who art in Heaven, the white man owed me ten dollars and I didn’t get but seven. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done. I took that or I wouldn’t a got none. Amen.”

This moment captures the depth, wit, and social commentary often found in early blues recordings.

Rare Country Blues Vol 2  John Byrd and Washboard Walter Taylor Take the Spotlight

A large part of this volume features John Byrd and Washboard Walter Taylor. Together, they offer a dynamic mix of blues, rags, and hokum. Byrd’s mastery of the twelve-string guitar stands out on tracks like Wasn’t It Sad About Lemon, a heartfelt tribute to Blind Lemon Jefferson. Meanwhile, Insurance Man Blues delivers a cautionary tale rooted in real-life struggles.

What Defines ‘Country Blues’?

Some debate the term country blues, especially since many artists in this collection lived in urban areas like Dallas, Atlanta, Jackson, and Cincinnati. While labels may evolve, the essence of this music remains the same. It carries the spirit of the blues—authentic, unfiltered, and deeply moving.

Why This Album Belongs in Your Collection

• Features rare and overlooked blues recordings
• Highlights John Byrd, Washboard Walter Taylor, and more
• Includes a tribute to Blind Lemon Jefferson
• A must-have for fans of pre-war blues, acoustic blues, and American roots music

Collectors and blues enthusiasts will find Rare Country Blues, Volume Two a compelling listen. These recordings, though overlooked in their time, showcase musicians whose impact deserves recognition today.