Reviewed by Tony May

As the cover says, "55 classic songs of faith and inspiration on 2 CDs." In his newly-published biography Last Train To Memphis: The Rise Of Elvis Presley, author Peter Guralnick goes to great lengths to point out Elvis' great love for, and comprehensive knowledge of, gospel music. He was, of course, heavily influenced by Southern Gospel singing, as well as soaking up the ethos of black church music in all its raw power. For my money (yes, I paid for it), the Presley voice is at its most beautiful on these tracks, largely taken from the albums 'His Hand In Mine' (1960), 'How Great Thou Art' (1967) and 'He Touched Me' (1972). Also, four tracks from the 50s and 70s with the bonus of a 10-minute session of a previously unreleased informal jam session. The man's voice and persona are still virtually indefinable, the electricity surges as powerfully as ever. The treat is topped with glorious quartet harmonies from The Jordanaires, The Stamps, The Imperials, also the female group The Sweet Inspirations (Whitney Houston's mum sang in them). Well-produced booklet included. Elvis at his best and probably his happiest.

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