Sister Rosetta Tharpe
was a talented jazz guitarist and vocalist who, although she spent most of her later years finding fame as a gospel singer, never turned her back on her jazz roots. On this 1991 CD taken from a previously unreleased European concert,
Tharpe
is heard solo, entertaining and uplifting the audience. Although there are a few more ballads than usual, the set has plenty of variety, lots of sincere feeling, and high levels of musicianship from the unique performer. Highlights include
"He's Got the Whole World In His Hands,"
"Didn't It Rain," "The Gospel Train" and "Down By the Riverside." ~ Scott Yanow