Reviewed by Tony Cummings

This album is subtitled 'A Tribute To The Music Of Joseph Spence & The Pinder Family'. I'd like to think that the name Joseph Spence would bring instant recognition from every Cross Rhythms reader but such is the cultural insularity of the church that Spence, lauded as a genius in folk roots circles, is all but unknown in the church despite the fact that the late, great Spence performed largely gospel songs. He was to Bahamas music what Blind Willie Johnson is to America's and the singer's extraordinary guitar playing is something every roots buff should investigate (you can get Spence albums on Arhoolie via Ace). But what about this 19 song compilation? It's certainly an intriguing one, with luminaries like Ralph McTell and Taj Mahall rubbing shoulders with relative obscurities like Tarika Sammy and Mitch Greenhill. Standouts for me are the wonderful Victoria Williams whose version of the beautiful "Although The Lord Be High Above" and "I Bid You Goodnight" by Blue Murder (a name that hides folk giants the Watersons and friends). Ignore the bizarre opening track by arch eccentric Van Dyke Parks, this is an album which will richly reward investigation.

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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