James Cleveland and the Angelic Choir, Vol. 3: Peace Be Still

One of the classic--and bestselling--gospel recordings, this live release from 1962 has all the trademarks of the contemporary gospel sound (which the Reverend James Cleveland almost single-handedly forged in the 1950s as composer and arranger for the vibrant Caravans). Very progressive music for the time, the sound is big, the arrangements bluesy, and Cleveland's powerful vocals alternate between rough-hewn and soaringly handsome. The live recording captures many of the shouts and cries of a superenthusiastic church audience. The backing choir is energized and booming, the funky organ just makes you want to jump up out of your chair, and Cleveland's preaching is simple, smart, and to the point. The only drawback is the crudeness of the recording, but surely the low fidelity is overcome by the performance's sheer power. "[Jesus] can save you tonight until your hands look new," Cleveland preaches. "Glory to God!" --Mike McGonigal