These 15 tracks were originally released on the Light label between 1985 and 1997, and include some of the biggest names in late 20th century contemporary African-American gospel.
The Winans,
Andraé Crouch, and
Tramaine Hawkins are all here, as are a couple of groups whose roots stretch back decades before the 1980s,
the Blind Boys of Alabama (whose swinging and bluesy "Down by the Riverside" is a highlight) and
the Mighty Clouds of Joy. Most of it functions as something of an overview of commercial trends in 1980s and 1990s black gospel, the decidedly upbeat music absorbing much of its flavor from secular soul and adult contemporary pop (and, on the Winans' "If I Labor," funk and disco), but retaining spiritual lyrics. Unfortunately, the musical arrangements often have a slick gloss that lacks the dynamism and commitment of much of the vocal performances. The earthier live number by
Crouch ("Power in the Blood") fares better, as do the ones featuring vocal choirs, "King Jesus Is Listening" (by
L.A. Mass Choir) and "Be Grateful" (by Walter Hawkins & the Love Center Choir). ~ Richie Unterberger