For a man so rooted in traditional church music and congregational singing, Edwin Hawkins was full of surprises. His finger-poppin’, feel-good anthem “Oh Happy Day” became a big pop hit—not something you can say about many gospel choir tracks. Just as indelible is the stompin’, full-choir rave-up on “Early in the Morning”, a praise anthem that testifies to Hakwins' penchant for rollicking, joyful worship. Of course, this first-rate album also comes with plenty of warm, approachable gospel music that any churchgoer will appreciate.