Conceptually, this album is a no-brainer. With the Blind Boys of Alabama being backed by some of the cream of the Crescent City, including Allen Toussaint, the Hot 8 Brass Band, and the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, how could you miss? As you would expect, you can’t. Having originally formed in 1939 (1939!), and having reached national treasure status decades ago, these gospel giants could be forgiven for resting on their considerable laurels. But that approach doesn't seem to be part of their collective DNA because Down In New Orleans is an irrepressibly soulful and inspiring release. From the song selection to the effortless execution of the harmonies, this is a moving album capable of sending shivers up your spine. As they’ve done on their last few releases, here they mix gospel classics (“Free At Last,” “Down By the Riverside,” “Uncloudy Day”) with unexpected secular covers, and they keep the tempos and energy up front start to finish. The gifted backing musicians swing throughout, producing an uninterrupted series of laid-back, New Orleans-style grooves that beautifully complement the vocal harmonies.