Let The Mermaids Flirt With Me: A Tribute To Mississippi John Hurt
VizzTone, 2025
9/10
Listen to Let The Mermaids Flirt With Me: A Tribute To Mississippi John Hurt
The consistently great artist Erin Harpe pays tribute to her greatest influence, Mississippi John Hurt, with these 10 tracks that welcome Jim Countryman for the occasion.
The cozy mood of “Candy Man” opens with warm acoustic guitar and Harpe’s always inviting pipes, and “Casey Jones” follows with Countryman’s well timed train whistle and a bit of soulfulness.
“Richland Woman” occupies the middle spot and pairs the ukulele bass with expressive singing, while “Make Me A Pallet On Your Floor”, the album’s best, showcases Sharpe’s intricate guitar playing amid the eloquent storytelling.
Close to the end, “Stagolee” offers a mesmerizing moment of minimal but impactful songwriting, and “You Are My Sunshine” exits with a very charming take on a classic that will bring a smile to anyone’s face.
Harpe’s delivery does justice to Hurt’s legacy, where she continues to prove she’s a commanding voice in the area of country blues, and Countryman’s contributions only enhance this thoughtful effort.
Travels well with: Erin Harpe- Meet Me In The Middle; Erin Harpe & The Delta Swingers- The Christmas Swing