Reviewed by Simon Eden

In the beginning was traditional gospel music whilst nowadays there is contemporary R&B gospel. What bridged the gap and made that transition possible were acts like the Clark Sisters. Originally, back in 1973 on their first album release, there were five sisters. Elbertina "Twinkie" Clark, Jacky Clark Chisholm, Dorinda Clark Cole and Karen Clark Sheard with a fifth member, Denise Clark Bradford, who no longer performs. Although Twinkie is the songwriting talent behind the group, it is Dorinda and Karen who are best known due to their solo success in recent years. This is the group's 15th album release and the first with all four main singers since 1989. With all the solo projects they have notched up an amazing 29 albums. Produced by Donald Lawrence, 'Live: The One Time' is a recording of a concert performed in 2006 at Houston, Texas, and will soon be accompanied by a DVD release. "You Brought The Sunshine" is now a classic in any Gospel Hall Of Fame so will be known to many far too young to remember the original releases and who may be more familiar with Karen's daughter Kierra "Kiki" Sheard. Respect is due to those who built the foundations of contemporary gospel music and their fierily soulful renditions here, complete with amazing harmonies, are still a wonder to behold. Let's hope this isn't the Clarks' last time ever.

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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