Skip James – “Hard Time Killing Floor Blues”
James’ signature falsetto is creepy and haunting and very distinct – nicely contrasting with the vocal sounds of Charley Patton and Howlin’ Wolf. His guitar style greatly differs from that of most other players of his era; he didn't use a slide. James originally recorded this song in the 1930s, but re-recorded it in 1964, when he returned to music after a long absence and an interim career as a minister. At the time he recorded the 1964 version of the song, he was terminally ill with cancer. The original, of course, has more of the authentic crackle and pop valued by collectors, but I find the re-recording to be just as haunting. This song can follow you around for days.
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