Reviewed by Paul Poulton

A compilation of 78s originally issued between 1927 and 1928 by one the legendary "straining preachers" of the era. Staring down the barrel of the Reverend's rhythmic blues preaching is a challenging yet exhilarating experience. Blues tones shoot out as he reaches up to the octave time and again like waves of the sea hitting the shore, sometimes hitting the flat third, it's preaching but not as we know it. Female members of the congregation add their extemporaneous phrases. Pay attention to the preaching and you will hear an articulate man discharging his weapon of rhythmic verbs. He talks about unmarried couples living together, as living on an instalment plan, afraid to make commitment. According to the good reverend, the train to Hell first picks up drunkards then moves on to the next station where it picks up liars. Even the titles exude rhythm with: "Your Bed Is Too Short And Your Cover Too Narrow", or "It Is A Strange Thing To Me" and the sombre "Death Might Be Your Christmas Gift". Demosthenes and Xenophon get a mention, and though not a lot is known about this black Chicago preacher who sold a fair few 78s in his day, it's clear that Rev Nix was sharp, discerning and not afraid to preach it like it was. A fascinating and enjoyable look back at history.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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