Gospel Funk of Peacock and Songbird! The famous Duke/Peacock label was one of the most important forces in gospel music during the 50s and early 60s – home to some of the hippest, most soul-drenched acts – especially the male vocal groups that were helping transform the genre, and pave the way for lots of soul artists to come! Yet by the time of these sides, Peacock was also picking up a lot of influence back from soul music too – using funky currents to help sell a spiritual message – all at a level that never got in the way of the vocals at all, and in face only seemed to inspire the singers with a more righteous sound overall! Once the label merged with ABC Records in the early 70s, things got even cooler and groovier – but even on the cuts before those numbers, there's a funky soul vibe that resonates throughout this collection – and makes the whole thing one of the most badass gospel sets we've ever stocked. Titles include "Where Could I Go" by Pilgrim Outlets, "Try Again" by The Loving Sisters, "Generation Gap" by Paul Owens & The Capital City Star Singers, "Something For Nothing" by Carl Bean & Universal Love, "This Is Not The First Time I've Been Last" by Inez Andrews, "Voo Doo Ism" by Spirit Of Memphis, "Bless The People Everywhere" by Liz Dargan & The Gospelettes, "What's Wrong With People Today" by The Sensational Williams Brothers, "Games People Play" by The Salem Travelers, "Living A Saved Life Now" by Josh Albert Hailey, and "Crying Won't Help" by Pilgrim Jubilees.
