There was a lot of 'impressionist' fingerstyle playing in the 60s and 70s - John Fahey, Leo Kottke and those influenced by the 'folk baroque' playing of Graham, Jansch, Renbourn, Martyn, etc. I was intrigued by Fahey at the time and, like Matt, impressed by his earthiness and syncopation. He could also be a very direct and simple player - check out his lovely version of "A Bicycle Built for Two" for example - as well as being immersed in convoluted rhythms and harmonies.

I don't know anything about James Blackshaw other than this clip, so I can't really comment other than to say that - on this showing alone and in my opinion - he's not better than John Fahey. I should temper this by adding that, these days, this sort of stuff doesn't interest me any more. I prefer grittier and more positive harmonic statements.