Artist:     The Blind Boys of Alabama

Album:     Atom Bomb

Label:     Omnivore

Release Date:     11/04/2016

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In a secular-oriented 21st century, the Blind Boys of Alabama remained loyal to their old-fashioned gospel roots. They updated their sound in their 2005 album, Atom Bomb, to include elements of hip hop and pop, exposing themselves to a new audience who may have previously been detached from their aesthetic. However, it’s worth noting that they reached maximum exposure with their preceding album, There Will Be a Light, a collaboration with Ben Harper, which cast its shadow over Atom Bomb, preventing it from receiving proper recognition.

Now, with this reissue, it’s getting the second chance it deserves. Omnivore Records has even included six bonus instrumental tracks, including the Blind Boys’ versions of “Spirit In The Sky” and “Presence of the Lord.” The album celebrates the irreproachable talent of the musicians featured, including Los Lobos’ David Hidalgo, Charlie Musselwhite, Gift of Gab from Blackalicious and the organ and keyboard legend, Billy Preston.

-Julia Egan