In 2022, When Do We Get Paid—an album of obscure, long-forgotten gospel soul originally released in 1975 by the Staples Jr. Singers (no relation to the similarly monikered superstars)—was rereleased to critical acclaim and worldwide success. Comprised of siblings from “desegregated” Mississippi, it showcased a powerful southern approach to gospel music, bathed in soul and blues and powered by a family bond that shone through at every turn.
Now, almost 50 years after their debut, comes a new album recorded by the original trio—Edward Brown, R.C. Brown and Annie Brown Caldwell, alongside younger members of their extended family forming the rhythm section. Entitled Searching and slated for a June 14th release courtesy of the David Byrne-founded Luaka Bop label, the album was recorded live over two nights in October 2023 in a small church in West Point, Mississippi and consists of songs written back in the days of their debut in the mid ‘70s.
Opening single “Lost in a World of Sin” finds Edward on lead vocal extolling the power of faith and the road to redemption. The family have clearly lost none of their sanctified charisma and musical excellence, so mark June 14th in your diary, try to see them live on their forthcoming tour, and rediscover the joys of the Staple Jr. Singers once more.
LISTEN: