Preachin'

This is a most unusual session. With accompaniment by organist Clarence “Sleepy” Anderson along with bassist Sylvester Hickman and drummer Dorel Anderson, the great tenor performs 11 religious hymns that are straight from the church. Ammons mostly sticks very closely to the themes but gives such melodies as “Abide with Me,” “You’ll Never Walk Alone,” “What a Friend,” and “Holy Holy” passion, soul, and honest feelings. Reissued on CD, this little-known album is a rather touching and emotional outing, and is quite unique. – Scott Yanow