THE Blind Boys Of Alabama have been singing together for 63 years.

Their passion for music is undimmed, their huge, ageless voices are as powerful as ever and their beautiful harmonies remain vibrant.

Gospel has always nourished blues, rhythm and blues and rock'n'roll, so it is natural for the Blind Boys to illuminate the spiritual message inherent in popular music.

Higher Ground features a rich assortment of classic and contemporary spiritual songs, many from the soul music tradition, with compositions by Curtis Mayfield, Prince, Aretha Franklin, Jimmy Cliff, Ben Harper and Stevie Wonder.

Robert Randolph and his Family Band join the Blind Boys as a backing outfit.

The 24-year-old New Jersey musician has emerged as one of the most exciting artists on the nouveau boogie circuit. He is a leading exponent of the "sacred steel" tradition, which employs pedal steel guitar.

Updated: 08:47 Thursday, September 26, 2002