“Talking about music is like dancing about architecture.” That line has been attributed to any number of people from Miles Davis to Martin Mull and Steve Martin. Whoever said it first, though, really does a good job of trashing those of us who are music journalists. On the other hand, there is a certain accuracy to that statement.

So, with that in mind, perhaps this whole “America’s Music Legacy” series has the right idea. Rather than produce dull documentaries talking about the music, they have gathered a number of musicians who practice the style and put on a concert. This particular show was hosted by Levar Burton and he tells a little bit about each artist when he introduces them. Beyond that, though, the music does the talking.  All in all, this is a cool release, like the whole series. It’s recommended to fans of gospel music, but also to those who would just like a nice introduction to the style.

This review is available in book format (hardcover and paperback) in Music Street Journal: 2010  Volume 6 at lulu.com/strangesound.