Topic: Desperate Man Blues

[Dr. Hasslein]

Desperate Man Blues



Director: Edward Gillan
Year: 2003
Running Time: 52 Minutes
Rated: G
Genre: Documentary

Plot
Joe Bussard collects records. But not just any records; records of what he considers to be ‘America’s real music’. We’re talking blues, hillbilly, bluegrass, gospel and jazz, mostly produced in the 20’s and 30’s; music that is undiluted by commercialism. Joe has built his collection by driving countless miles gathering up records from remote shacks and cabins from all over the southern states. We are taken down into Joe’s cigar smoke filled basement where he shares stories and speaks of his passion for the music he has spent over 50 years collecting.

My Thoughts
I absolutely love this film. And as someone who has no real interest in this type of music I found Joe’s enthusiasm for what does so infectious, he has the energy of a 16 year old.
Watching him dance away to a favourite song, talking about a particular artist or listening to of his many stores, you really get the chance to know the man. What I admire most about Joe is that he doesn’t care what people think, he likes what he likes and he’s proud of it. I think almost anyone who watches this film will enjoy it, it’s pretty hard not to.

DVD Details
Picture: Colour/DVD5
Region: 4 PAL (Australia)

Special Features

• 40 minutes of extra footage
• Audio Commentary
• 8 Page Booklet

[Kathy]

Documentaries are one of my favorite genres and this one sounds great. I've been to hundreds of blues concerts and I'm sure this will bring back many memories.

[Dr. Hasslein]

My review made you want to watch it! 

There is a CD available of selected songs from the film. And also I think Joe himself takes orders for CDs that he can make up as per request.

[Dr. Hasslein]

Joe Bussard down in his basement at his home in Frederick, Maryland.