Evidently last year’s first compilation of material from this Ohio grass-roots gospel group’s mid-’70s recordings was received well enough for their label to plow ahead with a second, and that’s great news. Certainly the Marshall Family’s influential catalogue, though not extensive, is full of fine recordings — more than enough to fill this second CD.
With two distinctive lead singers in brother David and sister Judy, the Marshalls’ approach to vocals offered a stunning and rare combination of smooth precision and passionate urgency. Whether singing traditional numbers such as “Gloryland” and “You Never Mentioned Jesus To Me” or one of David’s originals — there are four here, including two later covered by the Isaacs (“The God That Never Fails”) and Larry Sparks (“Mr. Jesus”) — there’s never any doubt about their convictions, or their desire to inspire listeners to share them. Indeed, the message was so central to their work that instrumental accompaniment, notably David’s highly individualistic mandolin and banjo playing, was often reduced to a bare minimum, if not dispensed with altogether.
Still, the ultimate jewel in this collection is Judy Marshall’s “Waiting For The Master To Come”. With its plaintive melody, gliding harmonies and simple, powerful lyrics, it’s among the most beautiful three minutes ever committed to disc.
