Alphabetical Four - Complete Recorded Works In Chronological Order 1938-1943
STYLE: Gospel RATING OUR PRODUCT CODE: 86600-28689 LABEL: Document DOCD5374 FORMAT: CD Album ITEMS: 1 RRP: £9.99
Reviewed by Lins Honeyman
Based in New York City, the Alphabetical Four were a male gospel vocal group that delivered spirituals in the jubilee style of singing and this 1995 Document Records anthology brings together the outfit's 14 78s from their time at Decca. Covering the period from 1938 to 1943, this is an understandably crackly affair but what shines through is the sheer tightness of Four's harmonies and the playful inventiveness with which they deliver each number - no small thanks to the musical chops of arranger and lead vocalist Emory Johnson. For the most part accompanied only by a barely audible guitar, the group often imitate real instruments with the so-called mouth trumpet making a number of appearances on this chronological (not alphabetical) collection and, thanks to the innovative nature of all involved, familiar pieces like "What A Friend We Have In Jesus", the Thomas Dorsey classic "Precious Lord" and "Get On Board, Little Children" sound incredibly fresh even to this day. These stalwarts aside, the Alphabetical Four's repertoire seems to be made up of material that has remarkably remained under the radar over the years with quality tracks like "The Old Ark's A-Moverin'", "Live Humble" and "I Want Two Wings To Veil My Face" all shining like newly uncovered gems. There is also a certain intrigue concerning the makeup of the group with what sounds like a female lead singer joining the ranks for six tracks that were recorded in 1941. No name has ever been unearthed for this chanteuse although some historians suggest it was one of the group's male singers delivering a highly convincing female vocal in falsetto. Take a listen to this fascinating compilation and decide for yourself.
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