Fasola: Fifty-Three Shape / Va Fasola: Fifty-Three Shape / Va CD

This 1970 release records the shape note singing convention in Houston, Mississippi. As is the tradition with shape note signing, songs are first sung using notes "fa-so-la-mi," then with lyrics. Each voice part is equally balanced, consequently submerging the tune because all parts (except bass) are sung by both men and women. Liner notes compiled by Amelia Ramsey include a history of shape note singing and background on each song. An illustrated essay by Frederic Ramsey Jr.. provides more information on the Mississippi community.

1. Liverpool 2. Delight 3. Schenectady 4. Bear Creek 5. Harmony 6. World Unknown 7. Stratfield 8. Arbacoochee 9. Save, Lord, or We Perish 10. Soar Away 11. Cusseta 12. Traveling on 13. Fillmore 14. Gospel Trumpet 15. Providence 16. Florida 17. Columbiana 18. Happy Home 19. Southwell 20. Concord 21. Rees 22. New Hope 23. The Resurrection Day 24. Idumea 25. Mear 26. My Brightest Days - My Brightest Day 27. New Jordan 28. Alabama 29. Morning Sun 30. Exhortation 31. Sinners Friend 32. Coston 33. Georgia 34. Cheves 35. Invitation 36. Eternal Home 37. Green Street 38. The Spirit Shall Return 39. Christian Soldier 40. The Good Old Way / Cowper (Medley) 41. Christmas Anthem 42. Jerusalem 43. Exhilaration 44. Canaan's Land 45. Sweet Rivers 46. Easter Anthem 47. Notes Almost Divine 48. Manchester 49. O Come Away 50. Murillo's Lesson 51. Calvary 52. Nashville