Reviewed by Phil Thomson

"I can treat my neighbour right, I've been born again" It couldn't be simpler. By the time The Original Five Blind Boys of Mississippi are assaulting your senses with these lyrics, you know the party is well and truly underway. And what a gathering! The Pilgrim Travellers, Mahalia Jackson, The Dixie Hummingbirds, Aretha Franklin, Mary Mary, Sam Cooke, Mighty Clouds Of Joy and on and on - old and new seamlessly, effortlessly loving God and letting the world know about it. It isn't long before it dawns on you - this is where it all began; the universal language of gospel handed down in spirit and voice through decades of heart and soul. This is a gospel history lesson you'll be happy to sit through. And yes, Thomas A Dorsey, who started it all, has his words and music yet again praying “Take my hand, precious Lord', this time in a masterful rendition by LaVern Baker with Prof Alex Bradford & The Bradford Singers. The two CD set has certainly been well thought through. The compilers have intentionally omitted the classic white gospel quartets, arguably claiming that “it is the black gospel tradition which is most likely to convert sinners.” Make of that what you will; for whatever reason, omissions are inevitable. Nevertheless, Union Square Music are to be congratulated on inviting us along. The experience is wonderful, uplifting; a real reminder of the true roots of rock and roll - and definitely essential.

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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