DUSTY SPRINGFIELD Vinyl & CDs

Review: Dusty, The BBC Sessions brings Dusty Springfield's timeless voice to vinyl for the first time, highlighting her incredible musical journey from 1962 to 1970. The disc set, remastered at Abbey Road, shows what helped made her a defining figure in British music. Starting with tracks from her early days in The Springfields, this collection traces Springfield's transformation into the queen of blue-eyed soul. It includes standout performances of some of her biggest hits, like 'Wishin' and Hopin', 'Son of a Preacher Man', and 'I Just Don't Know What to Do with Myself', The album also features her unique takes on classics, such as Stevie Wonder's 'Uptight' and The Bee Gees' 'To Love Somebody'. Known for her emotional depth and vocal power, Springfield's influence on pop and soul is undeniable. Her performances at the BBC showcase her ability to make every song her own, blending vulnerability with strength. A true icon of the Swinging Sixties, this collection celebrates her enduring legacy and cemented her place as one of the most revered singers of her generation.

Review: Henley-born British soul singer Dusty Springfield's time in Memphis marked a turning point in her careeriboth an artistic triumph and a personal gamble. By the late 60s, she had outgrown the UK's pop scene, craving the depth and authenticity of American soul. Recording in the same studios as her heroes, backed by Atlantic Records' finest, she delivered some of her most breathtaking performances. The smoky tenderness of 'Just A Little Lovin'' and the aching vulnerability of 'I Don't Want To Hear It Anymore' showcase her gift for storytelling, while 'No Easy Way Down' and 'I Can't Make It Alone' push her voice to extraordinary places, balancing control with raw emotion. But despite the album's brilliance, commercial success eluded it, deepening her self-doubt. Springfield was a perfectionist, often wracked with insecurity, yet here she sounds unshackledifully immersed in the music she loved, even at great professional risk. Decades later, its impact remains undeniable.

Review: Dusty Springfield's Faithful is a long-lost gem that showcases the singer at the height of her powers. Originally intended as her third Atlantic album in 1971, the tracks were shelved until even after the singer passed on. Real Gone's reissue beautifully captures the essence of these soulful songs, produced by Jeff Barry. While not containing a standout hit, tracks like 'Haunted' and 'Natchez Trace' deliver a funky, raw energy reminiscent of Dusty's best work. The album follows the Memphis blueprint but with a New York twist, lacking the swampy groove but compensating with Dusty's commanding vocals. The musicians' credits may be missing, but Dusty's voice shines over the gospel pop of 'I Found My Way Through the Darkness' and the Bread cover 'Make it With You.' Faithful is another great album in her discography that is always a welcomed listen.