Back catalogue: All genres

Review: Jean Carne was an underrated legend of disco and r&b music through the 70s and 80s and this reissue helps one of her gems back into the spotlight. On Side-1, the title track delivers a smooth, sensual slow jam that blends early 80s soul with subtle funk and electronic influences. Carne's vocal performance is nothing short of captivating, evoking both tenderness and passion in equal measure. Side-2 offers 'Heartache', another classy soul track that showcases Carne's ability to convey emotion through her rich, soulful and wide ranging vocal talents. The track effortlessly captures the smooth, seductive essence of early 80s r&b and boogie. Timeless rare grooves from yesteryear like this coming back around to be heard again is what makes reissues so important.

Review: Released in 1977 on Buddha Records, Norman Connors' heartfelt number 'Once I've Been There' is a lush piece of honest-to-goodness soul music that's long been held in high regard by diggers. It features a powerful vocal performance from Prince Phillip Mitchell, warm orchestral instrumentation, and a gentle groove arranged by Jerry Peters. Blending elements of classic r&b with jazz sophistication, the track has a timeless, cinematic feel. It's a standout in US drummer Connors' catalogue. Released in the same year, 'Captain Connors' is a loose and limber soul-jazz workout, with energetic horns and deinty keys riding over a sprawling arrangement. Well worth adding to the collection.

Review: This compilation sets the stage for another year of soulful sounds, showcasing a diverse array of artists pushing the boundaries of contemporary r&b and soul music. It's a captivating blend of smooth vocals, lush instrumentation, and infectious grooves, with each track offering a unique perspective on the ever-evolving landscape of soul music. The three-disc collection traverses a spectrum of styles and moods, from the sultry vibes of Patrice Isley's 'I Want You For Myself' and the infectious energy of Julian Jonah's 'Let's Not Say Goodnight' to the heartfelt emotion of David A. Tobin's 'Fallin In Love (Rob Hardt Remix)'. Highlights include the soulful sounds of Cornell C.C. Carter's 'Everyday', the smooth grooves of Diplomats Of Soul's 'I Love You', and the timeless classic 'Ain't No Sunshine' reimagined by The Paradise Projex. With its expertly curated selection of tracks, we see a testament to the enduring power of soul music to move, inspire and uplift.