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Critic's Review
William Ruhlmann, All Music Guide
Drawing from the archives of Vee-Jay Records, Collectables combines the Swan Silvertones' second and fourth albums for that label on this discount-priced two-fer, 1960's Singin' in My Soul and 1963's Blessed Assurance. The renowned group's approach does not change from one album to another; on both, they fervently sing original gospel songs with rocking accompaniment, the harmonies supporting an improvisatory, expressive lead vocal. "Rock My Soul" became a well-known song, but the material is consistently impressive, both in its proclamation of the wonders of Christianity and in the dark warnings against damnation. In particular, "Sinking Sand" is a harrowing confession of uncertainty about life, justifying the need for salvation. Christian or not, music lovers are likely to enjoy the Swan Silvertones' musical religiosity.
