Louisiana blues guitarist John Campbell recorded his second and last album, Howlin' Mercy, for Elektra in 1993, the year of his death at the age of 41 from heart failure.
Campbell left a very limited discography, so there's not much of an opportunity to listen to his passionate, growling vocals and powerful blues and slide guitar. Every track on Howlin' Mercy deserves a listen, but I've chosen the 1987 Tom Waits song (Way) Down In The Hole.
I first came across this song when watching the epic HBO series The Wire - one of the best dramas ever to appear on television in my opinion. Each season of the show had the song performed by a different artist over the opening credits (though not John Campbell's recording).
Cartridge: Ortofon Synergy GM SPU
Phono amp: Graham Slee Accession + Elevator EXP
Turntable: PTP Audio Solid12 + SME M2-12-r tonearm
When you walk through the garden
You gotta watch your back
I beg your pardon
Walk the straight and narrow track
If you walk with Jesus
He's gonna save your soul
You got to keep the Devil
Way down in the hole
He's got the fire and the fury
At his command
You don't have to worry
If you holding Jesus' hand
We'll all be safe from Satan
When the thunder rolls
You got to keep the Devil
Way down in the hole
All the Angels sing
'Bout Jesus' mighty sword
They shield you with their wings
Keep you close to the Lord
Don't heed to temptation
For his hands are so cold
You got to help me keep the Devil
Way down in the hold
Down in the hole
Down in the hole
Down in the hole
Down in the hole
You got to help me keep the Devil
Down in the hole
Help me keep the Devil
Way down in the hole
Help me!
Help me!
You have to help me
You got to help me
Ah, help me keep the Devil
Down in the hole
Well, help me keep the Devil
Way down in the hole
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