Customer Reviews

Deep River

5 star:		(7)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

1992's "Deep River" was a watershed of sorts for the Blind Boys; the support of a major label, terrific keyboards and production from legendary Stax sessionman Booker T. Jones, fine bass playing from James Jamerson Jr. (yes, son of the famed Motown session bassist of the '60s), and top-drawer material from Bob Dylan and others. At the end of the day, though, it's the Blind Boys themselves who deliver the goods, making "Deep River" one of the finest gospel albums of the '90s. Make no mistake--this isn't contemporary Christian pop in any way, shape, or form. "Deep River" is hardcore southern gospel of the old school: lots of shoutin', lots of testifyin', an in-the-pocket rhythm section, those deep, soulful harmonies, and the unbelievable power of lead vocalist Clarence Fountain; imitated by many and matched by none. I've had the album since it was released and it's one a short list of albums that I always reach for when I'm down, particular favorites being "God Said It," "Down On Bended Knee," "I'm Getting Better All the Time," and the version of that old staple "Just a Closer Walk With Thee." From start to finish "Deep River" will move the feet and feed the soul of even the most hardened agnostic.

The Five Blind Boys "wrecked the house" during a concert in Melbourne a few years back with a song called "Look Where He Brought Me From". It was an amazing experience that left the most secular audience members shouting "Hallelujah!" from the back stalls.

This song alone warrants a five star rating for Deep River. Throw in the catchy "Brother Moses", the soul n' roll of "Every Time I Feel the Spirit" and the bluesy "Reminiscing" and you've got one of the best Blind Boys' releases for a good number of years.

Nothing else picks me up and leaves me up there like Deep River. They asked for a witness, now they've got one.

I have always enjoyed the Five Blind boys of Alabama. It was refreshing to hear that they haven't lost what some called,The old time religion!"

First of all, if you are interested in contemprary Christian pop, look elsewhere.
The Blind Boys of Alabama blend gospel and blues with a strong stirring of soul. They were born poor, black, and blind in the deep South and met up as kids at the Talladega Institute for the Negro Deaf and Blind where they were taught Braille and useful skills like making brooms and tables. Fortunately the school also had a choir and the boys bonded thru their love of music, the Bible, and a determination that life had something better to offer them than making brooms on a backporch. By age 14, they quit school and hit the road performing gospel music.
Thank the Lord!

They have stuck to their roots, when you listen to "Reminiscing" I defy anyone to sit motionless. You'll be rocking/clapping/foot-tapping. "Deep River" is hard-core, raspy, intense southern gospel that moves the spirit.

By the way, I hate gospel music. I don't own any - except for the Blind Boys. When I first heard them perform "Amazing Grace" to the tune of "The House of the Rising Sun" I became a fan AND if you haven't heard them sing that song - go buy it, right after you get this one. Totally worth the bucks.

The other reviewers have all said all sorts of good things about this CD so I will make my comment simple: If you are either unfamiliar with "Brother Moses" or don't have it in your collection purchase this CD immediately as it alone is worth the price.

There is not one song on this CD that I dislike. No wonder these men are legends! This is real music. Their rendition of Dylan's "I Believe in you" is better than his. Listen to samples of "Don't Play with God" and "Brother Moses" right now!!!

I'm a "johnny come lately" when itcomes to the Blind Boys. They'vebeen singing longer than I've been alive. I went to see a concert withThe Mighty Clouds of Joy. They justhappened to be the opening act, so I thought. But then the Clouds who were top billed came out to open.After a brief intermission those Blind Boys came out and shook the place. I've been a big fan every since. The next day I called a friend at WEA and had a copy of this CD sent overnight! Although itis a studio project it is their best and by far closest to the live experience. Produced by Booker T of"Green Onions" fame.