The Clark Sisters Live - One Last Time EMI Gospel Gospel 06-19-2007

SCORE 93%

Recorded in Houston, Live- One Last Time brings together the legendary Clark sisters after a 12 year hiatus for a joyful run-through of many of their most beloved anthems, and it is every inch the classic you might expect from such a combustible mix. Dorinda Clarke-Cole, Karen Clark-Sheard, Twinkie Clark and Jacky Clark Chisolm, daughters of gospel pioneer, Dr. Mattie Moss Clark, were well trained by their inspiring mom. The years of demanding hands-on vocal training paid off well in the quartet’s show-stopping harmonies, elaborate arrangements, and wide-ranging musical palette. Each of the sisters were successful in solo careers, though their sum here is very much greater than their individual parts. They bring their sorely missed fire to this stunning reunion album, a treat gospel lovers will find deeply satisfying yet just as sure to ignite the interest of the newbies.

Producer Donald Lawrence’s hand is easily spotted in the spotless arrangements as well as the writing of a few tracks, including the funkified pop opener, “Livin’,” enumerating the blessings of living the faith life. Karen Clark-Sheard takes the lead on her slow burnin’ single, “Blessed and Highly Favored,” warm horns rich under the sisters’ magnificent harmonies. Jacky’s upfront on the slightly bluesy “God Understands All” and the quieter “I’ve Got an Angel,” and Dorinda brings on the razzle dazzle with the pulsating “Looking to Get There (Heaven),” a standout track just as notable for its instrumental prowess. But straight up it’s the stupendous Twinkie that shines strongest on Live- One Last Time, no question. Aside from writing a majority of the album’s 17 tracks, she periodically takes control on the keyboards and vocally, tearing it up on “You Heard My Cry.” The track’s sizzling electric guitar and simmering organ bears her strong vocal like the gorgeous gift that is, and she holds the live crowd in the palm of her hand on “Tried Him,” weaving her magic effortlessly through the searing keys. “Pray For the USA” didn’t do much for me, but Twinkie cuts loose on the “Reprise,” amping the energy level back up with her keyboard wizardry and raw vocals before flowing into “Jesus is a Love Story,” a continuation of passionate exhortation.

You can’t have a Clark Sisters reunion album without covering their signature song, the joyful “You Brought the Sunshine,” and the general exuberance and strong drums make this the perfect closer to a must-have album. Rarely does an album exemplify the best of a genre as well as The Clark Sisters:  Live- One Last Time.