Although the lineup on this gospel compilation is stellar, the particular selections are the somewhat less inspired, showier renditions of the included performers' catalogs. On the plus side, the greats of both soul gospel and bluegrass gospel are presented together on the same release, which is rare. Included are essential artists such as
Mahalia Jackson,
the Staple Singers,
Bessie Smith, and
the Carter Family. The album's highlights also include the Abyssinian Baptist Choir's anointed rendition of "Sweet Jesus" and Mitchell's Christian Singers' "Them Bones." Extra information is not a bad thing, but in an effort to be more thorough and educational, the included book becomes slightly frustrating with commentary on many artists and songs that aren't included. ~ Joslyn Layne