My Own Boogie

AMG Review of My Own Boogie

Thomas Ward
All Music Guide

Blind John Davis is one of the great lues piano players, often accompanying lues giants such as Big Bill Broonzy and Tampa Red. Although he released a series of solo albums in his lifetime, it is as an accompanist that he gives listeners his best work, but that's not to say there's nothing to commend on this release. Essentially a budget collection of some of Davis' best solo sides, every cut is accomplished oogie piano playing, in the style of, but far more relaxed than, say, Pete Johnson. It's hard to see this release as anything near to definitive, but as a budget introduction to an overlooked pianist it serves its purpose well.