Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

In the late '70s and early '80s, the Clark Sisters ruled gospel music! Now, two of their classic albums are available as a single disc CD release. 'Unworthy' was released in 1976 as the group were on their way up. As such, it features the brilliant songwriting of Twinkie Clark and the characteristic vocal harmonies that made the group so popular. Tracks like "I Can Do All Things Through Christ" and "My Mind Is Made Up" are very much of their time and as the '80s approached so did major success for the sisters. After the runaway success of the live album 'Is My Living In Vain' put them on the map internationally, The Clark Sisters recorded their most successful album in 1981. 'You Brought The Sunshine' was a complete crossover hit in that year launching the sisters into the mainstream. With it came the usual controversy that they were being worldly but in fact the album reveals them at their sharpest. The title cut is a pop masterpiece that stands the test of time whilst tracks like the smokin' ballad "Center Thy Will" and the disco funk of "He Keeps Me Company" make sure the message is still right at the front of things. The album also contains one of my all time favourite gospel tunes, the very funky "Overdose Of The Holy Ghost". Now, admit it! With a title like that, you want to hear it don't you? Due to space restrictions on the disc, one track from 'Unworthy' has been left off - "Star Spangled Banner". Can't say I miss it one jot. One disappointment though is the sound quality here where the CD release seems to be completely without re-mastering and the subsequent quality sounds a little muggy. Muggier than I remember the vinyl. That quibble aside, there are some classic gospel tunes here.