Higher Ground
- by The Blind Boys Of Alabama
- Real World Region: North America
- Aug 2002
The Blind Boys of Alabama are old lions of gospel music, performing together for over 60 years. On this album they are backed by pedal steel phenom Robert Randolph and his Family Band, most assuredly young lions, who also come from the church. Add the multi-talented Ben Harper on several songs and the result is a record that is at times traditional and respectful, at others contemporary and playful, but always soulful and inspired.
Reviews
CD Spotlight
'Their golden years have gone platinum...Higher Ground is arguably a younger-sounding record - bluesier, rougher, funkier.'
Album of the Week
'Gospel and R&B, long intertwined, file into the same pew on this often inspired disc...a sound that will indeed take you higher.'
Really, really old gospel group makes magic
'Happily, the Blind Boys' second collection of funkafied gospel is even better than the first...This is another stunning set of songs from Alabama's finest, and more proof of gospel's influence on R&B and rock & roll.'
'This might just be the gospel and rock albums of the year rolled into one.'
'If you love gospel, blues, soul and funk then you'll want to own this album. Actually, if you love music (and I guess you do as you're reading this) buy this album.'
'This stirring outfit puts punchy gospel singing over Sixties-style wailing guitar and tremulous Hammond organ, and the distinctive feature on Higher Ground is a soul/funk repertoire... The finale is a gem...'
'Higher Ground is a joyous triumph that has both a positive cohesion and formidable substance. It is a remarkable achievement for a group that was founded 60 years ago.'
Soul survivors
'...the harmonies are as delicious as ever...'
Tracklist & Audio Samples
| play | People Get Ready |
| play | Spirit In The Dark |
| play | Wade In The Water |
| play | Stand By Me |
| play | The Cross |
| play | Many Rivers To Cross |
| play | Higher Ground |
| play | Freedom Road |
| play | I May Not Can See |
| play | You And Your Folks/23rd Psalm |
| play | I Shall Not Walk Alone |
| play | Precious Lord |
