At 80, Clarence Fountain, founder and lead vocalist of the Blind
Boys of Alabama, has some challenges. He recently abandoned the singing
group he formed in 1939 at the Talladega Institute for the Deaf and
Blind, and now finds himself undergoing dialysis several times a week.
Like a true artist, though, Fountain plays the cards dealt to him and
has started over, this time with a new band and album.
He has help from friends like ex-Blind Boys guitarist Sam Butler,
Solomon Burke (executive producer, and whose One World label
co-released the album) and Steely Dan mastermind Donald Fagen (who
penned the liner notes and plays melodica on one track, the spare and
atmospheric “The Birth of Jesus”).
Stepping Up and Stepping Out stands as an exceptional gospel
and soul release that you can spin anytime, anywhere—at a family
barbecue, in your car on the way to work, at home alone. Due to
Fountain’s advanced age, it’s no surprise that Butler handles the
lion’s share of singing. Yet even when frail-voiced Fountain steps into
the spotlight for gospel classics like “Me and Jesus” and “Stand by
Me,” there’s a great band backing him, with sparkling Hammond organ
runs by Chris “Hambone” Cameron and tasteful production courtesy of Jim
Tullio.
The buoyant, quasi-reggae groove of “I Shall Not Be Moved” should
not be missed. Neither should this entire CD.
This article appears in Aug 27 – Sep 2, 2009.
After years of playing Rock, Top-forty and reaggae, I wanted to try Gospel. This CD has been instrumental in easing my understanding and appreciation of the art form. This is a great and inspirational work.Anyone looking for a hard edged, no-frills approach to the Gospel genre must buy this compilation. Thank you gentlemen! D.Walls,Sr.