Released 15 years ago tomorrow, this is the fourth album from R&B/gospel/rock group Robert Randolph & The Family Band, and it's one of their best in my opinion. The band and their lead singer/pedal steel guitarist got their start at church but their first three albums were much more in the "jam band" rock genre than this album, which definitely still has elements of those classic R&B/rock jams. Produced by T-Bone Burnett, this album celebrates their many musical and spiritual influences. Along with a number of original songs, covers of classic songs by Blind Willie Johnson, Bob Dylan, John Lennon and Prince are spread throughout this album and they are great new versions. It definitely celebrates their Gospel roots as well as a variety of other musical influences. As always, the band's musicianship is great and Robert Randolph's skills on the pedal steel are jaw-dropping. Sadly, it seems like the version on streaming doesn't have the brief clips of classic Gospel groups between some of the songs ("segue" tracks) which definitely contribute to the feel of the album—tying past to present—which is I guess a reason to get your own copy on CD or double LP.

Release Year: 2010
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