“Gospel choir forming – Buddhists welcome”. So read the sign posted on a café wall that started the journey for Café of the Gate of Salvation, the Sydney-based a cappella choir known for its joy, energy…and mighty, mighty sound.

When founder Tony Backhouse first had the idea back in 1986 to start a non-profit inner-city choir inspired by the music of the African-American sacred vocal tradition, little did he know how far-reaching that decision would be.

The history of African-American gospel is one of hope and freedom threaded throughout with protest and social agitation. It sheds an undeniable influence on R&B, funk and soul music. This is passionate, spiritual, uplifting music.