Various Artists: A Gospel Tribute to Martin Luther King, Jr.

Various Artists
A Gospel Tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Against The Flow Records 2010
www.ilovegospelmusic.com

Grammy-winning producers Cedric and Victor Caldwell weave the musical tapestry for well-known singers to render traditional spirituals, gospel songs and anthems with a contemporary twist on A Gospel Tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

This various artists project was released last month, just in time for the King national holiday and in anticipation of Black History Month.

“Lift Every Voice and Sing,” which opens the album, features a marvelous combo of Mary Mary and Smokie Norful, who gospelize the African-American National Anthem in a manner reminiscent of the 1990 version led by Melba Moore. Popular traditional singers Beverly Crawford and Ann McCrary (daughter of the Fairfield Four’s Sam McCrary) let loose on “Eyes Have Not Seen” and “I Need Thee Every Hour” respectively. Later, Crawford dips deep into her vocal register for “Run to the Water,” and comes up sounding very much like Mavis Staples.

One of the more interesting duos is Bernice A. King, Dr. King’s daughter, who introduces Christian hip hop artist IROCC’s “Born a King.” The great leader himself is represented by snippets of his speeches, which highlight the track “Farewell.” Angie Winans’ completely new interpretation of “The Lord’s Prayer” is enfolded in Take Six-like close and complex harmonies. Jerard Woods is aided by the Joint Heirs and Francis Mustapha on “Hands on the Plow.”

Surprisingly, “Take My Hand, Precious Lord” is not included on the project. It is no secret that Dorsey’s 1932 classic was Dr. King’s favorite gospel song. It would have been great to hear Ann McCrary, Beverly Crawford, or Mary Mary perform it here.

All in all, the gospel tribute to the slain civil rights leader has plenty of commercial appeal and hopefully will introduce the gospel artists to a much wider audience.

Four of Five Stars

gPod Picks: “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” “Born a King.”