Reviewed by Tony Cummings

Though this fascinating 23 track compilation of pre-war gospel has been out since 1995 it’s only now that a copy has found its way to Cross Rhythms. It offers a bit of most of the rural styles of the era and connoisseurs will soon find their feet pumping to the joyful piano-driven rhythms of Sister Cally Fancey’s Sanctified Singers, the gutsy congregational bonhomie of Missionary Josephine Miles And Sister Elizabeth Cooper, the bluesy evangelist of Rev Edward W Clayborn and a track from the man who kick started modern gospel, Thomas A Dorsey. Sometimes, tracks seem plucked from collections for their rarity rather than their quality – the dreadfully stilted Deacon Mose performing an ancient hymn for instance – while the sound, from hugely rare 78s, is somewhat variable. But if you’re keen on building a comprehensive collection of early gospel music this is a compilation worth considering ordering from your local record shop.

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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