Reviewed by Stephen Luff

The Richard Smallwood Singers were formed in 1977 but it was in the late '80s when they reached their peak with three albums produced for Word Records, 'Textures' (1987), 'Vision' (1988) and 'Portrait' (1990), which supply the material for this 15-track compilation. Leaving aside the observation that 'Beginnings' is a pretty inaccurate title for a composer/choir director who has been recording albums (not represented here) since 1982, I can report that the funky "He's Able" opens the album with a great feel, which continues with tracks like "Holy Holy" and "Vision" with its enjoyable classical opening! The only downside to the album is that time has not been kind in terms of the production values and arrangements and a number of tracks have a distinct '80s feel, for example "I Will Pray" with its slap bass and electronic drums. Best cuts are the uplifting "Your Love Divine" and the inspiring "Center Of My Joy" written by Richard alongside Bill and Gloria Gaither. Richard's songwriting has been a blessing to many and down the years he's made a pretty big impact on black gospel music development. In truth, he deserves a more wide-ranging and thought through compilation than this one.

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