Prior to Saturday night, the last time I had seen the Five Blind Boys of Alabama was in the mid-late fifties. Their leader then was Clarence Fountain. Both times I saw them, they were in a "battle" with the Five Blind Boys of Mississippi with lead singer, Archie Brownlee. Yes, they would battle, and to see and hear Clarence Fountain and Archie Brownlee working and even singing together on each other's songs, was just beyond words. Well, hearing the Blind Boys of Alabama Saturday night was like a step back into the old world of Gospel, but with a twist of the new Gospel added. They did the old spirituals, hymns, folk, and contemporary. Their harmony is still tight, and each singer contributes to the lead. In the old days, it was just Clarence Fountain at the front, but now each singer can and does take the lead lead. However, the "rock" of the group now is the oldest original member, Jimmy Carter. To my amazement, they have added a new and different voice, Paul Beasley, formerly of the Gospel Keynotes, and for a short period, the Mighty Clouds of Joy. I had no idea that Paul was a member of the group, but as soon as I heard that high shrilling tenor, I knew it had to be Paul. I have always loved hearing Paul with that great falsetta,and the sincerity that rings out from his voice when he sings. I don't know if Paul is a "blind boy" meaning he has lost his sight, but regardless, he adds something special to the Blind Boys. The group is special; no other like them. They don't perform for show or fashion, but to praise the Lord. They hold up the old and new banner for Gospel, and I thank God that I saw them back then when I was just a teenager and now at age 74. God bless the Five Blind Boys and their great young musicians. These young musician must be commended for touring with the older men and backing them so well. Bring them all back soon, please.