CAROLYN CRAWFORD Vinyl & CDs

Review: A great choice of reissue by Kent Dance, Carolyn Crawford's 'Get Up And Move' is a fiery vocal soul highlight, and impassioned plea to the object of her affections to "get up and move", before he, she or they do something they "don't wanna do". It's a situation we can all relate to, but this recollection of Crawford's rendition of the scene lends the feeling an extra weight, igniting the inner carpe diem in all of us. From the unheard vaults of Mickey Stevenson's Mpingo label in the early 70s, it now comes double-billed with the Motownier 'Sugar Boy' on the flip, also hitherto unheard.

Review: It Takes A Lotta Teardrops showcases the refined touch of Mickey Stevenson, delivering a timeless Motown sound. This Leon Ware and Vicki Basemore composition, although unreleased until now, echoes the classic vibes that Kim Weston also interpreted, but like hers, it remained in the vaults. The decision to shelve this gem in 1972 may have been due to its retro style during a time of evolving musical tastes, yet it remains an essential listen for Motown and Northern Soul enthusiasts. On Side-2, 'I'm In Love', stems from Carolyn Crawford's work with Hodges, James and Smith in 1971. Released under the M'Pingo label, this track embraced a more contemporary feel for its era and continues to resonate in Modern and Crossover rooms today. This single is a fine addition for collectors and fans of classic soul.