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Recorded live in front of a willing Los Angeles congregation, Amazing Grace is an astounding display of artistry and faith from the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin. After dabbling in jazz with Columbia and absolutely defining strong-woman soul on several classic Atlantic releases, Aretha exposed her roots with this 1972 gospel collection, leaving little doubt that her royal line rose right out of the black church. Franklin fires through gospel standards such as "What a Friend We Have in Jesus" and the driving "Old Landmark, " as the Southern California Community Choir punctuates her phrasing with spot-on trad gospel arrangements. The open arrangements leave time and space for Franklin to stretch her voice and interpretations, resulting in some of her most inspired performances on record.