This reissue of 30 spirituals that were originally recorded between 1936 and 1952 presents the legendary Marian Anderson at her peak. Her unique vocal characteristics are everywhere in evidence: the incredible range, the ability to change color and inflection, sometimes creating the illusion of two different voices, and the organ-like resonance and enveloping warmth. There are also traces of Anderson"s one weakness: a slightly tremulous vibrato. Her expressive response to this repertoire, always simple, direct, and deeply felt, came from the heart and spoke to the heart. The songs, mostly familiar favorites, are selected for maximum variety. Anderson brings out every nuance of their character and emotional range, from lamenting to swinging, jazzy, and triumphant. Franz Rupp, Andersons"s long-time partner whom she credited with introducing her to German lieder, is equally at home in the many styles of these American songs. --Edith Eisler