 
The Blind Boys of Alabama, a group that traces its history all the
way back to 1939, returns to its traditional gospel roots on “Atom
Bomb” while still expanding its ever-growing reach. The Blind
Boys have enjoyed newfound popularity of late with the help of songs
by Ben Harper, Tom Waits and other contemporary acts. The outcome has
been several Grammys and a new, young audience. “Atom Bomb”
finds the septuagenarians still open to trying new ventures. The highlight
is “Demons,” a stirring, seamless melding of gospel, soul
and hip-hop. The Gift of Gab from Blackalicious provides guest vocals
on the Fatboy Slim/Macy Gray song. The Blind Boys also deliver a rousing
rendition of Blind Faith’s “Presence of the Lord”
with Billy Preston on the Hammond B3. Other guest musicians include
Charlie Musselwhite and Los Lobos’ David Hildago, who turn “Spirit
in the Sky” into a roadhouse romp. The heart of the CD, however,
is traditional foot-stompin’ Southern gospel that can still shake
the rafters. The title song, an old Soul Stirrers’ number, is
one of the old-time gems resurrected on the 10-song CD. The song warns
about society’s fear about the bomb when the real concern should
be salvation. The Blind Boys harmonize and groove with feeling.
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The
Blind Boys of Alabama