Robert Nighthawk, a legendary figure in the blues world, brings his mastery of slide guitar to the forefront with "Sliding The Blues." Born in Helena, Arkansas, Nighthawk spent his formative years traveling the South, learning from the likes of Sonny Boy Williamson and developing his own distinct style. Known for his fluid slide technique and haunting vocals, Nighthawk's influence extended far and wide, inspiring many blues guitarists who followed.
"Sliding The Blues" is a comprehensive collection that showcases Nighthawk's unmatched ability to blend raw emotion with technical prowess. From the opening track, "Prowling Night Hawk," listeners are drawn into the nocturnal world of the blues, filled with stories of hardship, resilience, and longing. Tracks like "Sweet Pepper Mama" and "Mean Black Cat" capture the playful spirit of the blues, while "Lonesome World" and "My Friends Have Forsaken Me" highlight the deep sense of melancholy that defined much of Nighthawk's music.
The album also features upbeat, danceable tunes like "Nighthawk Boogie" and "US Boogie," displaying Nighthawk's versatility as a performer who could effortlessly shift between heartfelt ballads and lively, foot-tapping numbers. Songs like "Don't Mistreat Your Woman" and "Mama Don't Allow Me To Stay Out All Night Long" offer timeless tales of love and relationships, brought to life by Nighthawk's soulful delivery.
The combination of well-known tracks such as "Black Angel Blues" and "Kansas City Blues" with rarer cuts like "Bricks In My Pillow" and "The Moon Is Rising" makes "Sliding The Blues" a treasure trove for blues enthusiasts. The evocative slide work in tracks like "Freight Train Blues" and "Next Door Neighbour" showcases the depth of Nighthawk's artistry, transporting listeners to the very heart of the Mississippi Delta.
"Sliding The Blues" is a testament to Robert Nighthawk's enduring legacy as one of the greatest slide guitarists of all time. His music captures the essence of the blues—its heartache, hope, and indomitable spirit—making this album an essential listen for anyone seeking to understand the roots of modern blues guitar.
Track List:
Disc 1
01. Prowling Night Hawk
02. Sweet Pepper Mama
03. Tough Luck
04. G-Man
05. Lonesome World
06. Don't Mistreat Your Woman
07. I Have Spent My Bonus
08. C.N.A.
09. Mean Black Cat
10. My Friends Have Forsaken Me
11. Mamie Lee
12. Take It Easy Baby
13. Brickyard
14. Big Apple Blues
15. Every Day And Night
16. She's Got What It Takes
17. Ol' Mose
18. Next Door Neighbour
19. You're All I've Got To Live For
20. Freight Train Blues
21. Good Gambling
22. Friars Point Blues
23. Gonna Keep It For My Daddy
24. Mama Don't Allow Me To Stay Out All Night Long
