Reviewed by Dave Brassington

Recorded before a large and enthusiastic audience in Louisville, Kentucky, these giants of Southern gospel music are brought together in spectacular fashion backed by a big orchestra who really help raise the tempo in some of the upbeat numbers. One cannot help but enjoy the very fine singing on such tracks as "Holy Highway" and "Sweet, Sweet Spirit". There is plenty of lively banter between several members of the group with Bill Gaither being the butt of most of it! One surprise on this set was having that fine pianist and singer Gordon Mote backing the Vocal Band plus he is featured doing two great numbers "Get Up In Jesus' Name" and "Wake Up Dancing". There is also a humorous clip where Gordon is seen directing the Louisville traffic, some feat considering he is blind! Other fine tracks include "Nothing But The Blood" and "John In The Jordan" where Ernie Haase and his group take the lead. The only downside for me was the jingoistic "America Medley" which rather grates on British ears. However if you like high energy, rousing Southern gospel, grab hold of this DVD which is vastly better than the rather tame CD version.

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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