Reviewed by Tony Cummings

A big gospel charting album Stateside, out at last in the UK thanks to Alliance's recently signed deal with Mississippi's Malaco/Savoy. And what a delight this is. For this fiery, thrilling, atmospheric set clearly shows that it's still possible for the fiery sound of '50s quartets to sound right on and relevant in the sophisticated '90s. While many veteran '50s quartets, the Clouds for instance, have struggled to come to terms with modern times, the Canton Spirituals have kept their authentic sound intact with lead singer Harvey Watkins Jr rasping, roaring, exhorting and testifying while his fellow soul brothers chant and harmonise in delicious backups. On some cuts the brothers are helped out by a choir, the Angelic Voices Of Faith (whose hot albums on CGI are sadly unreleased in the UK) and the effect is utterly captivating. Some contemporisation is provided by a drum-tight backing band. Generous playing time is another bonus. Thoroughly recommended.

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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