Marion Williams - The Gospel Soul Of Marion Williams (1999)

Issued in 1999, this compilation focuses on the latter-day work of legendary gospel singer Marion Williams, who passed away in '94. Whether settling into lively soul-tinged tunes ("Ain't No Harm Done," "This Train") or working in a more spare and traditional church-oriented vein ("I Thank You Lord," "Just a Closer Walk With Thee"), Williams's impressively dynamic voice is always at the fore, reinforcing her status as one of the finest singers in gospel history. While other collections may cover more ground (see MY SOUL LOOKS BACK), THE GOSPEL OF MARION WILLIAMS offers up an excellent overview of her '70s-to-'90s recordings.