Amazon.comThe GMWA, or Gospel Music Workshop of America, was begun by the Reverend James Cleveland in 1967 in order to bring together his loved ones for the purpose of worship and fellowship through music. These many years later, the GMWA has grown into the largest organization of its kind and has given a boost to many talented artists and songwriters including the now-famous Kirk Franklin. This disc brings together 10 songs recorded by the workshop's Mass Choir in conjunction with the yearly convention in 1998. And what a mighty good holy ruckus they raise! Featuring a massive-voiced choir, the arrangements blend traditional black gospel with contemporary and pop elements including a full electro-acoustic band. The group is often led in song, as on the outstanding "There's Power in His Name," by a fiery preaching soloist. There's plenty of whirring organ, thumping bass, smooth jazzy piano, and voices that soar straight to heaven. --Paige La Grone