The Keynotes - Get On That Gospel Train (1973/2016) [Official Digital Download 24/88]

This album is quite a surprise! The 25-strong mixed Afro-American gospel group from the San Francisco Bay area expands the traditional black gospel/spiritual lexicon with rich modern harmonies and sophisticated counterpoint. Every piece presents a unique, modern, multi-dimensional interpretation of the original gospel. For the most part the choir sings a cappella, but on four pieces a quartet of crack West Coast jazz musicians in varying groupings accompany The Keynotes. They include pianist George Duke, famous for his work with Frank Zappa as well as a myriad of successful fusion albums, and saxophonist/flutist Hadley Caliman, known for his work with Freddie Hubbard and Gerald Wilson, among others.