Aretha Franklin, Rev. James Cleveland, The Southern California Community Choir – Amazing Grace (2xLP)

The album was recorded in a large Baptist church, with an extremely enthusiastic, rapt audience in the pews and a full, funky band as well as the Southern California Community Choir under the direction of Aretha's mentor, Reverend James Cleveland. Her voice is melodic and full of the most intense emotion, yet clear and controlled - like a direct proclaimer of the Holy Spirit.

Aretha's father, the brilliant preacher Reverend C. L. Franklin, gives a short speech in which he proudly proclaims, among other things, that she has always been a diligent churchgoer.

Highlights include the wonderful "Wholy Holy", a touching 11-minute version of "Amazing Grace", and Inez Andrews' stirring song "Mary, Don't You Weep". This recording was already much more than a return to the/your roots when it was released, it is an inspired gospel-soul masterpiece!