Stubb's Gospel Brunch Volume 1

Stubb's Gospel Brunch Volume 1

C.B. Stubblefield was as legendary for his warm, spiritual nature as he was for his barbecue. A fitting reminder of this legacy can be found every Sunday at the venue bearing his name. For those who sleep in on Sunday, Stubb's Gospel Brunch Volume 1 provides a great way to sample Austin's rich but underheralded contributions to the genre. Eating and music sometimes have an uneasy relationship, but the well-honed gospel groups on this live recording don't sound the least bit fazed by it. The Original Bells of Joy kick things off with an uplifting take of "Let's Talk About Jesus," a million-seller for the venerable Austin group in 1951. The Durdens give downright funky praise on "We Give the Glory," the family's vocal interplay packing the emotive wallop of a mass choir. Anthony Durden's bass playing, meanwhile, is transcendent. The Gospel Stars shine on "I Know It Was You," a blues-flavored call-and-response, leaves you breathless after 61/2 minutes. Although their substitution of synthesizer for horns is less than optimal, the Faithful Gospel Singers' "Soul Salvation" lays out the connection between the church and Stax/Volt. Later on, Willie Creeks and the Mighty Sincere Voices of Navasota bring down the house with "When I Get the Glory," a joyful, electrified sermonette that'll render you reverent regardless of belief. Somewhere up there, Stubb is smiling.