The Voice of the Turtle cover

The Voice of the Turtle

John Fahey · 1968

39 min · 12 tracks · blues

A tapestry of intricate fingerpicking and evocative storytelling woven through traditional blues and avant-garde influences.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • intricate fingerpicking detail hunting
  • evocative storytelling for introspection
  • short tracks for quick sessions
  • circular themes that invite reflection

Maybe skip if you want

  • seeking high-energy engagement
  • prefer standalone songs over cohesion

Where this album fits

Career context
By 1968, John Fahey was establishing himself as a pivotal figure in American primitive guitar music, following his influential album 'Blind Joe Death' from 1963. 'The Voice of the Turtle' marked his fifth studio release, showcasing his unique blend of folk, blues, and experimental sounds that would further define his artistic identity.
Stylistic neighbors
Leo Kottke· Bert Jansch· Nick Drake

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Bottleneck Blues 3:06
  • 2 Bill Cheatum 1:56
  • 3 Lewisdale Blues 2:18
  • 4 Bean Vine Blues 2:45
  • 5 Bean Vine Blues #2 2:51
  • 6 A Raga Called Pat, Part III 9:04
  • 7 A Raga Called Pat, Part IV 4:28
  • 8 Train 1:47
  • 9 Je ne me suis reveillais matin pas en may 2:22
  • 10 The Story of Dorothy Gooch, Part I 5:27
  • 11 Nine-Pound Hammer 1:59
  • 12 Lonesome Valley 1:42

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata