Various Artists WOW GOSPEL #1S (2 CDS)

Audio Remasterer: Chaz Harper.
Arranger: Bruce Roberts.
Released in 2007, this 30-track two-disc set presents many of the finest contemporary gospel hits. While some songs on the collection have a traditional gospel vibe (see Shirley Caesar's stirring "Strong Man"), many tunes lean toward a R&B/pop sound, as revealed on Kierra Kiki Sheard's beat-driven "No, Never" and Smokie Norful's jazzy, string-tinged "I Need You Now."

• Format: CD
• Genre: Gospel