Reviewed by Tony May

As is constantly said in the music press, Ace are doing a wonderful job in reissuing gems from long-buried goldmines. They've certainly excavated the Specialty vaults, bringing daylight to 27 more tracks from the fab five following 1991's 24 track-er 'O Lord Stand By Me/Marching Up To Zion'. These maestros can do no wrong in my book, they whip up far more intensity and fire than almost any of the talented competition. Having said that, you can see why the earlier CD was released first, if you see what I mean. 25 of these tracks are previously unreleased, quite a lot are alternative takes, and, well, you can tell why they wanted to do it again. The sound too is comparatively thin and uneven in places. Though there are highlights such as a sizzling "Precious Lord" and the novelty title track, the previous release used up most of the creamier stuff. Interesting diversions into humour and jazz though.

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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