Reviewed by Andy Cooper

The Canton Spirituals were formed over 50 years ago as a harmonizing gospel group. Some of the sons of the founding members keep the vision alive, and they've released over 15 albums in the last 20 years, though this is the first studio release for three years. Their harmonizing style is smooth and soulful, drawing on blues, soul and old style quartet influences. Generally four of the five lads provide a silky yet solid backing for the lead singer (normally Harvey Watkins Jr) to hang his words and improvisations on. The vocals (and band) are pretty faultless, though not particularly outstanding technically. The styles and sounds are familiar, the lyrics are somewhat predictable, but that provides a warm and welcoming vibe to the recording: like sipping hot chocolate in front of your glowing log fire after a long, cold, dark walk home. The production stifles some of the band and vocal dynamics, but the words and voices are so Jesus-filled that the listener is lifted regardless: there's a lightness of spirit to be found in songs like "I Need You", "Glad I've Got Jesus" and "I Never Met A Man". Groups like this one are the bedrock of the gospel music industry and deserve our deep respect, despite reaching a little short of perfection here.

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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