1965's THE TRANSFIGURATION OF BLIND JOE DEATH is one of John Fahey's most mysterious albums. Despite the best efforts of cadres of Fahey-ologists, it's still not entirely known for sure when or where the 15 tracks were recorded. Regardless, the resulting collection has an odd fragmentary quality that actually enhances the overall album rather than detracting from it. Skipping from playful eccentricities like a version of the old standard "Bicycle Built For Two" to impressionistic, watery originals like the sublime "The Death of the Clayton Peacock", THE TRANSFIGURATION OF BLIND JOE DEATH is an endlessly fascinating, occasionally impenetrable delight. Complete Fahey newcomers might want to try a more cohesive effort like THE LEGEND OF BLIND JOE DEATH, however.|
Rovi
A strange man, John Fahey, with an unusual set of guitar styles. This album, originally released on Riverboat Records and later reissued by Fahey's own Takoma label, has a lot of rough edges in terms of the recording but a tremendous amount of power when it comes to the music. Fahey was at the top of his game, alternately playful and dark, so there's never a dull moment. There is always something new to be heard on each playing. ~ Steven McDonald
Rovi