Reviewed by Tony Cummings

Those of you who know your R&B/pop history will remember that Ramsey Lewis is a Chicago-based pianist who, with his trio, broke through big in the pop, R&B and jazz fields in the '70s. Ramsey's biggest ever hit was a slinky version of the gospel standard "Wade In The Water" and with his church-based roots it's entirely appropriate that the jazz giant should bring in the J W James Memorial A.M.E. Church Combined Choir to perform with him at Chicago's Ravina Festival where this was recorded. The producers even find room for special guests Darius Brooks, Donald Lawrence and Smokie Norful. In the words of sleevenote writer pastor Lucille L Jackson, "The sanctuary was filled with worshippers praising God and it was like a real revival meeting." Standout for me was the vocal-less "Sunday Strut" and throughout, Ramsey's playing is top notch showing him to be a piano master who can handle everything from bluesy glissandos, to deft bop stylings and even bring in a snatch of ragtime. If you're looking for an album which expertly blends jazz with gospel this one's for you.

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