In 2006 I took a punt and pulled this album out of a bargain bin. We had just moved out to NZ with my parents (the first time). We were deciding on where to settle and planned on staying for a couple weeks in Karpiti Coast.
It was the middle of Winter and the house we were renting had a huge glass windowed side, single glazed. It would have been undoubtedly beautiful in Summer but in Winter......I think it could have been the coldest I've ever been. (It was so cold we couldn't bare to stay for the full allotted time so we went and caught the ferry to the South Island.)
I remember standing in that freezing cold kitchen, rugged up to the eyeballs, listening to this beautiful gospel album while feeling lost and hopeless. The unsettling feeling left a strange impression on my soul.
This is an album you can listen to whilst in the depth of despair or at the height of elation.
That's the magic of gospel music I guess, regardless of religious belief, Gospel seems to hit the right spots. The Blind Boys of Alabama are Gospel masters. Team that with Ben Harpers heart and leadership and you're onto a winning combo.
The vocals and harmonies, with brilliant live band are absolutely fantastic. I would love to play with a live band of such talent one day.
Well, Well, Well is the song that specifically touches a nerve whenever I hear it. When I'm in silence in the car, this song always come to my head and I have to belt it out. It makes for a great day afterwards.
There's a link to the full live video below if you prefer to watch and listen.
Wherever you're at mentally today, I hope this album brings you a joy so concentrated, you can almost tangibly feel it. Grab it with both hands and have a fantastic day.