Brand new recordings by one of the great treasures of us gospel/soul music, her first secular album for eleven years.

'Secular' in the true meaning of the word: with the arguable exception of the traditional finale, "Will The Circle Be Unbroken" - 19th Century verses that Mavis first recorded with her family back in 1960 - these are not sacred hymns or gospel songs. However, as one might expect of Mavis, her gospel roots are evident throughout 12 spiritual expressions of hope and redemption applied to 2004.

There is personal tribute ("Pop's Recipe", a fond kiss to her father, Roebuck Staples), remembrance of the segregated south ("A Dying Man's Plea" aka "See That My Grave Is Kept Clean"), a poignant reference to 9/11 ("In Times Like These") and undiminished heart for a better future ("Have A Little Faith").
Throughout the album Mavis interprets intimately with her unique sultry beatitude that has always confused the sacred with the secular. How can such a sensually sounding woman ever hope to persuade men to straighten up and fly right?