The power and splendor that was gospel in the '50s radiates throughout the performances on The Great 1955 Shrine Concert. The Pilgrim Travelers, with twin powerhouse leads Kylo Turner and Keith Barber, get things started in fiery fashion, followed by the dynamic Caravans, whose roster at that time included Albertina Walker and Rev. James Cleveland, who doubled as a pianist. Also on the bill were Brother Joe May, justifying his "Thunderbolt of the Midwest" nickname; the Soul Stirrers, with Sam Cooke still in the fold; and the Original Gospel Harmonettes, concluding the proceedings with a flourish. Anyone who attended certainly felt the spirit, as will anyone who listens to this magnificent 14-song set.
Brother Joe May will rock your world, he just about steals he show, at least until Sam comes on and really does. Ethel Davenport just sends shivers up my spine, I wish they had included more of her. Dorothy Love Coats sings with with a conviction that she can wring the devil out of you with the power of her voice, she probably could!
