Marion Williams New Message/Standing Here Wondering CD

This two-fer from Collectables features a pair of out of print recordings by gospel vocalist Marion Williams: New Message and Standing Here Wondering, both originally issued on Atlantic in 1969 and 1971, respectively. Several traditional gospel hymns are interspersed with reflective hits of the times including "He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother," "My Sweet Lord," "People Got to Be Free" and three from the pen of Bob Dylan, "I Shall Be Released," "Wicked Messenger," and "I Pity the Poor Immigrant." Along with the majestic background vocals of the Sweet Inspirations and the Dixie Hummingbirds, several stellar jazz musicians are present including Keith Jarrett, Hank Jones, Ray Bryant, Bernard "Pretty" Purdie, Junior Mance and Joe Zawinul, making these thoughtful and passionate sessions highly recommended. ~ Al Campbell

Full Title- New Message/Standing Here Wondering. Gospel singer extraordinaire Marion Williams launched her career as a star attraction with Clara Ward and the Ward Singers. With powerful, sanctified, soaring vocal skills Marion Williams captivated every audience who had the pleasure to see her perform. These classic 1971 Gospel recordings present the singer at her zenith and feature her biggest solo hit 'Standing Here Wondering Which Way To Go'. Riveting Gospel performances include 'I Shall Be Released', 'Heaven Help Us All' and 'My Sweet Lord'. Collectables. 2004.

2 LPs on 1 CD: NEW MESSAGE (1969)/STANDING HERE WONDERING (1971).

Personnel: Marion Williams (vocals, piano); David Spinozza, Eric Gale (guitar); Hank Jones , Joe Zawinul, Junior Mance, Keith Jarrett, Ray Bryant (piano); Gary Illingworth, Richard Tee, Paul Griffin (organ); Chuck Rainey (electric bass); Ray Lucas, Bernard "Pretty" Purdie (drums); The Dixie Hummingbirds, The Sweet Inspirations (background vocals).

Liner Note Authors: Joel Dorn; Anthony Heilbut.

Recording information: Atlantic Recording Studios, New York, NY; Regent Sound Studios; The Hit Factory, New York, NY.

Arrangers: John Murtaugh; Marion Williams; Roberta Flack.