Reviewed by Matthew Cordle

Sam Cooke joined the Soul Stirrers in 1950 with the quartet already seasoned travellers down the Gospel Highway. With Sam as lead singer and main songwriter they progressed to record for Specialty Records many of the greatest ever gospel tracks. Also, according to the sleevenotes, Sam reached thousands of female fans as he blended the role of matinee idol with that of a fervent Christian. Of course in 1956 Sam went on to become one of the most popular R&B and pop singers of his generation and tragically lost his spiritual bearings in the process. But this compilation highlights those classic years with the Soul Stirrers. Many of the tracks are firmly in the four-part harmony styles of the earlier Soul Stirrers days and classics such as "Jesus Gave Me Water" (based on the Samaritan woman at the well), "Jesus I'll Never Forget" and the title track (based on the woman who touched Jesus' clothing for healing) are truly timeless. Sam sang here with that sinuous, warm tenor on songs that sound like they really meant something to him. How tragic the circumstances of his decline and death were in contrast. If you already own the earlier 'My Gospel Roots' CD you probably won't want to buy this. But otherwise, this is a near essential purchase.

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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