The Golden Gate Quartet: Naxos Gospel Legends 8.120731
It’s really difficult to believe that these recordings are over 60 years old. They sound so modern, fresh and original. It just goes to show that at least some pockets of life existed in this world before the 1960s. Anyone who likes acapella music really must hear this. The imitation train effects and horn accompaniments are something to behold – as convincing as those we know from our present day mouth-music hero, Bobby McFerrin – this group must have been his inspiration and muse. The songs on this album are almost all traditional spirituals, but the quartet’s repertoire also included many self-penned numbers and music of a much more modern and secular nature. The group’s achievements include performing for President Roosevelt and working with such acclaimed names as Leadbelly. In the fifties, to escape the racism often encountered in the USA, they relocated to France where they continued to perform (with various personnel changes) right into the 90s. In fact, early member Orlandus Wilson served as their manager and arranger until shortly before his death at 81 in 1998. I have absolutely no reservations about recommending this CD – once you’ve heard it, like me, you’ll probably want to rush out to track down more records by the Golden Gates. This is probably the most exciting record I’ve come across for some years.
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