Acoustic Years 1959-1960

In 1959 Sam Charters wrote in a letter, I've found and recorded the legendary Lightnin' Hopkins...

It took nearly every cent I had...

He's the best, without much question; so I'm not going to record anyone else. I think you should get this out as quickly as possible. No matter what has to be delayed. He's pretty hot at this moment, and after we listened to the playback we both agreed he'd never sung better.

Charters was intent on Lightnin' singing to an acoustic guitar. Lightnin's electric guitar was in pawn but in any case, Charters dismissed it in favour of an acoustic in poor condition and requiring a set of strings. Lightnin', needed the money, so didn't argue the point. Later, Charters added, He sang until he became so tense emotionally that it was impossible to talk to him. He drank steadily but he seemed to play more brilliantly and sing with even greater intensity...

That session, and later 1960 sessions featuring Lightnin' on acoustic guitar form the material for this collection.

Music making, whatever the genre, doesn't get much more intense or masterly than this.