"I know almost nothing about gospel music. But music itself has always been an important part of my life. This was the first gospel album I ever purchased and it is one of the best albums I own. Mahalia has such an AMAZING, inspirational voice.Every song on this album is a timeless classic. I like the upbeat 50's style of much of her music. Her slower songs draw you in because Mahalia's voice is such a powerful instrument. I listen to her sing and it puts me in a euphoric mood. I'm not as crazy about her album of hymns, it's a little too heavy-handed for me. If you love music, this album is for you. Mind you, I am not a particularly religious person. I just keep my eyes peeled for the best music that's out there. This album has upbeat songs like "God Put a Rainbow in the Sky," "Didn't it Rain" and "Walk in Jerusalem." It also has songs that mesmerize me, such as "I Will Move On Up a Little Higher" and Gershwin's "Summertime" from Porgy and Bess.A MUST BUY."
My Goodness!!!
R. E. Belfrey | Atlanta, GA United States | 02/26/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"My Goodness this is quite a compelation!!! I thank my God for annointing this woman to sing like...like...like, well, I don't even know how to describel her. You can actualy feal what she sings. You can feal the sense of longing and expectation for rest and reward after a life filled with trial and tribulation. You can also feal the joy and serenity I'm sure she had due to the One she loved to sing about most: her life's Love, and mine: Jesus of Nazareth! This cd has wonderful sound quality and a lovely selection of some of her different modes-- from jubilee, to sorrow/longing, to almost classical-slash-jazzy! You won't be dissapointed! May she rest ever in God's peace."
Gospel in a Nutshell
Alf Kremer | Denver CO | 03/17/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"For anyone wondering what the deal is with gospel music (I was), pick up this disc and find out. The liner notes say " you can close your eeys and feel the breeze provided by the funeral home fan as it brushes air past your cheek." That's no lie - it's hard not to "feel church" listening to this album, no matter how strong your religious conviction. Excellent sound quality, and very good song selection (including several non-gospel numbers) make this a killer collection for everybody. If you're not singing along by time "Didn't It Rain" comes on, check your pulse - you could be dead."
Addicted to Gospel
Alf Kremer | 11/05/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"As I was born and raised in Europe I never heard of "Gospel". Then my american husband introduced me to the music of Mahalaja Jackson. I have had the pleasure to enjoy rare performances of great entertainers before, but I have never heard any voice like hers before. The first song I heard her sings was a shabby recording of "Joshua fit the battle of Jericho". Ther recording wasn't even done in stereo. Yet, I got goose bumps when I heard Mahalaja sing. It was a rare experience for me. Even today, when life gets crazy on me all I have to do is just listed to her singing. Her voice is like chicken soup to my soul!"