Reviewed by Dulcie Dixon

The First Lady of black gospel music hits top form with this live set.  From the catchy opener "I Cannot Stop Praising Him", the listener is caught and held. Predictably, on a live album, Shirley preaches, teaches and sings praises with no reservations and with the same declamatory power she demonstrated with the Caravans all those years ago. The album is dedicated in memory of her mother, Hallie Martin Caesar, who is passionately eulogised on the title track. Shirley takes out time to share fond memories of her mother, who was a tower of strength and gave so much love. The lyrics fit beautifully with the tune and later Shirley talks and yells of her first "real" experience of Jesus.  (Mama knew that she wasn't playing church no more...) It makes you laugh and it makes you cry, and as you sing along with the backing vocalists, it's as though you knew 'Mama' personally. Side B is not as addictive, but it does have a melodious finish with "What Would You Do?", a song asking if you'll be ready when the Saviour comes. The last line continues to ring in your spirit, even when it's ended. Overall a good album, produced by Bubba Smith and Shirley herself.

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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