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Gospel Train

Verve Vault Vinyl
Artist: 
Sister Rosetta Tharpe
€29,99

Release date: 11 September 2026

An undisputed yet underrated architect of what we now know as modern rock and roll, 1956's "Gospel Train" was an innovative release for Sister Rosetta Tharpe in more ways than one. For starters, her first release on the Mercury Records label was also her first available from any label on the then-new 12" long-playing format — still the industry standard for vinyl albums today. Most importantly, Gospel Train took Sister Tharpe's distinctive blend of primordial electric guitar-driven blues and traditional gospel and harnessed its power in a polished studio setting, backed by first-call session musicians including the vocal quartet the Harmonizing Four. These songs (including "Up Above My Head There's Music in the Air," "Jericho" and "99 ½ Won't Do") signify the power of Sister Tharpe's musical gifts, which would only become more influential in the years to come.

 

Verve Vault Series: Cut and mastered by Ryan K. Smith at Sterling Sound from the original analog tapes and pressed on 180-gram vinyl by Optimal. Single sleeve with iconic original artwork.

Tracklisting:
Gospel Train (1956)

 

A1. Jericho
A2. When They Ring The Golden Bell
A3. Two Little Fishes, Five Loaves Of Bread
A4. Beams Of Heaven
A5. Cain't No Grave Hold My Body Down
A6. All Alone

B1. Up Above My Head There's Music In The Air
B2. I Shall Know Him
B3. Fly Away
B4. How About You
B5. Precious Memories
B1. 99 1/2 Won't Do