Various - Black Vocal Groups Vol 5 1923-1941

Reviewed by Tony Cummings

Seven different acts here one of which, the Galilee Singers who recorded in New York in 1940, offer a particularly fine slow, moaning "Waiting For Jesus" while their driving version of "Motherless Children" is also pretty good. Just as engaging are the Four Great Wonders who offer tight harmonies on their four sides while the Gospeleers, from 1941, have a hipper sound accompanied by piano, guitar and drums. Somewhat out of place on this set are the two tracks by the Goodwill Male Chorus as they are a choir, not a vocal group. Equally at odds with the album title are the four recordings by the Reverend Sutton E Griggs that students of African American literature may find fascinating. Griggs published many political and philosophical treatises as well as five novels. Unfortunately his preaching is pretty dull and "Europeanised" though they do reflect the growing black consciousness within the churches.