Norman Connors

Review: Norman Connors was a 'go to' producer in the 1970s and '80s for soul and jazz, while holding it down on an impressive array of solo albums. Connors is a drummer first and foremost, and across his rhythm-focussed recordings were the introduction of singers who went on to have their own individual careers such as Jean Carn, Phyllis Hyman and the exceptional Phillip Mitchel - who features on A side 'Once I've Been There'. Flipside track 'Captain Connors' comes as a 12" mix made in 1977 but never released before on vinyl! Previously, the title track was only ever on a promotional release, often changing hands at over 100 quid a time - demand is high on this special release on the original imprint, cop it while you can!

Review: Serious jazz dance fusion from 1974, Norman Connors' cover of Carlos Garnett's "Mother Of The Future" drives with shamanistic fury before the firing keys, heaving horns and deep soul vocals fly into the mix. For a more contemporary jazz take, flip for Bembe Segue's emphatic live version. Lavished with her distinctively rich vocals and stern spoken word and complete with wild bass runs and a thick bed of percussion, it's an instant show-stopper. Two incredible covers, one special 10".