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Sound Bites: Audio Reviews
Thu Sep 5, 8:08 PM ET
By The Associated Press
Selected audio releases:

"Higher Ground" (Realworld, dlrs 16.98) — Blind Boys of Alabama

The Blind Boys of Alabama, whose voices age like wine, getting richer and fuller with time, are back with a new album, "Higher Ground." And that's exactly where they've gone. Higher. Stronger. Better.

Still flush with the success of Grammy-winning "Spirit of the Century," the group continues its winning formula, revitalizing and refreshing classic gospel and R&B tunes.

On "Higher Ground," they tackle Curtis Mayfield's "People Get Ready," Stevie Wonder's "Higher Ground" and Jimmy Cliff's "Many Rivers to Cross."

Covering classics is generally a risky venture, but the Blind Boys, who have been singing together for more than 40 years, do it well. Robert Randolph & the Family Band use pedal steel guitar, bass and percussion to capture the essence of bluesy gospel.

One standout is "The Cross," written by Prince. Jimmy Carter's soulful vocals backed by John Ginty's crescendo-building Hammond organ make it the album's most powerful track.

Kim Curtis, AP Writer
Copyright © 2002 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. The information contained in the AP News report may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without the prior written authority of The Associated Press. Copyright © 2002 Yahoo! Inc. All rights reserved.

I look 4ward 2 hearing this album. The Blind Boys of Alabama are a great & special gospel group; I'm sure their rendition of "The Cross" is both powerful & inspiring! I'm very glad they chose it as one of the songs on their album.

As always, Thank U Prince 4 sharing Ur inspired, creative talent with the world; we deeply appreciate it. And Thank U Blind Boys of Alabama 4 adding this beautiful song 2 Ur new album. Thank U Jesus 4 each & every1 of these artists who so touch our hearts.

Oh Christ!

I listened to it, and I didn't like it.

I agree with jbchavez. Not keen on what they did with The Cross, but the cover of Higher Ground is pretty cool.

They're touring at the moment, aren't they? Anyone seen them and are they playing The Cross live?

BartVanHemelen said:

Ahh, Jimmy Carter, not much of a President, but one hell of a vocalist!