Walter Hawkins & Love Center Choir — Berkeley, 1989

A full live concert by Walter Hawkins and the Love Center Choir, recorded on 25 May 1989 at the Berkeley Community Theatre in California. A pastor, pianist and composer, Walter Hawkins was one of the most important figures in contemporary gospel, instrumental — with his family — in moving the music from traditional gospel toward a more urban sound steeped in soul and R&B. Before a galvanised audience, the choir unfurls broad harmonies and infectious fervour, moving through « When the Battle Is Over », « Jesus Made a Way », « Waymaker », « Is There Any Way » and « God Will Take Care of You ». Inspired vocal direction, soaring dynamics and call-and-response with the congregation: this filmed live performance captures all the spiritual and musical intensity of late-1980s Californian gospel. A precious full concert for lovers of gospel, African-American sacred music and choirs. Filmed live concert, contemporary gospel, 1980s gospel.