Juno Recommends Soul: September 2024

Review: Sade's 1992 album, Love Deluxe, immerses listeners in a luxurious blend of quiet storm, r&b and jazz-pop, enveloping Sade Adu's evocative expressions of desire and heartache. Emerging from the mid-'80s UK jazz-pop scene, Sade perfected a sound that fused jazz, bossa nova, and soul with a modern, streamlined edge. From their beginnings as a fusion of former members of post-punk and new wave bands, Sade the band evolved into a cohesive unit, crafting seamless compositions that seamlessly merged soulful staircases of sound with liquid-crystal pop-funk. Love Deluxe stands as their most monolithic work, a sonic journey characterised by its ethereal fluidity. Sade's music became synonymous with cosmopolitan exotica, transporting listeners to a world of jet-setting luxury and romantic introspection. Adu's introspective lyricism explores themes of love and longing with a depth that transcends traditional romanticism, delving into the complexities of human emotion. The album's production, marked by programmed beats and a minimalist approach to instrumentation, aligns it with the emerging trip-hop genre, characterized by its fusion of lushness and dread. The precise interplay of drums, synth, and guitar creates an immaculate sonic landscape, perfectly complementing Adu's mesmerizing vocals. Each track on Love Deluxe serves as a poignant exploration of love's multifaceted nature, from the relentless devotion depicted in 'No Ordinary Love' to the introspective character studies of 'Feel No Pain' and 'Pearls. Through Adu's evocative storytelling and the band's masterful instrumentation, Love Deluxe transcends mere romanticism, offering a profound meditation on the mysteries of love, birth, and death. It's an album that defies easy categorization, inviting listeners to lose themselves in its blissful abstraction and emotional depth.

Review: This limited-edition 45 from Aaron Frazer, featuring two standout tracks from his debut album. On side-1, 'Bad News,' delivers a punch with its funky, drum-driven rhythm and a pressing message on urgent issues like climate change and systemic racism. Recorded in Nashville with a stellar lineup, including The Memphis Boysifamed for backing Dusty Springfield and Aretha Franklinithis track blends old-school soul with contemporary relevance. On Side-2, 'Done Lyin'' reveals Frazer's emotional depth. With Dan Auerbach's robust production setting the stage, Frazer's heartfelt vocals shine through, creating a soulful resonance that captures both strength and vulnerability. Soul fans will be taking notice of this release!

Review: Classic alert! This sure-fire party starter is a timeless gem by Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes originally released in 1973. It features the powerful vocals of Teddy Pendergrass and is a heartfelt expression of regret and longing over a lost love. With its upbeat tempo and lush orchestration it marked a significant shift in soul music as it blended traditional r&b with the emerging disco sound. It's built on an infectious groove with soulful harmonies and emotive lyrics which will always resonate with audiences and that is why it was such a chart-topping hit back in the day that remains a defining moment in the group's career and a timeless anthem of love and loss. It is backed here with the equally catchy 'Wake Up Everybody.'

Review: Detroit native Bobby Hutton made history by performing on the first nationally televised Soul Train episode in 1971. His journey in music led him to record with Phillips, producing many sought after tracks.
The two tracks on this 7" were originally released back-to-back in 1974 on the ABC label. Both songs were co-written and produced by McKinley Jackson, who played a significant role in crafting hits for Lamont Dozier, Freda Payne, and The Four Tops at ABC during the early to mid-70s. Grammy Award-winning Reggie Dozier, Lamont Dozier's brother, also contributed as a co-writer. This 7" has not been reissued in 40 years, and original copies are highly prized in the UK. Northern Soul music is one of the most in-demand genres for rare 45 diggers. This is a great example.

Review: Selector Series strikes gold again with their reissue of The Vibrations' 'Shake It Up,' a modern soul gem that first hit the airwaves in 1974. Celebrating its 50th anniversary, this classic, co-written by Bunny Sigler and arranged by Vince Montana, still electrifies dance floors today. With its swirling strings and unmistakable percussive intro, 'Shake It Up' became a favourite during the mid-80s London warehouse parties and the rare groove scene, solidifying its place on diggers' lists. The flip side, 'Make It Last,' penned by Thom Bell and Linda Creed, offers a mellower vibe, making this 7" a perfect blend of energy and soul.

Review: Get ready to experience a true soul classic reimagined with this special 7" reissue of Matt Covington's magical 'I'm So In Love With You' which was originally released in 1983. Now a real rare groove gem, it embodies early 80s r&b with its smooth vocals and lush instrumentation. Covington's heartfelt delivery and the track's elegant arrangement have made it a collector's favourite with original pressings now hard to find and very pricey. This reissue is sure to introduce a new generation to its timeless appeal and the flip side features 'Muhammad Ali', a funk-infused tribute to the legendary heavyweight boxer.

Review: Sade's Lovers Rock marks a significant evolution in the band's sound and image. Departing from their signature luxuriance, the album embraces a sparser, knottier sound that beautifully balances past influences with contemporary trends. Adu's vocals, thick and low as ever, blend seamlessly into the breezy landscape of acoustic guitar, reggae bass, and simple percussion, creating an atmosphere of understated sensuality. The album's themes range from new love to motherhood to societal issues, showcasing Adu's lyrical prowess and her ability to navigate the complexities of human emotions. Lovers Rock also pays homage to the cultural influence of Caribbean Britishness, both in its title and its musical style, adding depth to Sade's sonic palette. While the album was released amid a pop landscape dominated by shiny, slick productions, Sade remained true to their sound, avoiding obvious trends and opting for a more introspective approach. The album's impact reverberates through contemporary music and allowed Sade to maintain their unique identity and continue evolving with each release.

Review: Aaron Frazer's limited-edition 45 showcases two dynamic tracks from his debut album. Side-1 has 'Bad News,' with its' punchy, drum-heavy groove paired with a powerful commentary on critical issues like climate change and racial injustice. This track, recorded in Nashville with the iconic Memphis Boysiknown for their work with Dusty Springfield and Aretha Franklinimerges classic soul with a modern edge. Flipping to Side-2, 'Done Lyin'' offers a glimpse into Frazer's emotional landscape. Dan Auerbach's commanding production provides a fitting backdrop for Frazer's poignant vocals, which convey a deep sense of both resilience and vulnerability. This black vinyl version is sure to impress soul enthusiasts with its blend of heartfelt expression and classic flair.

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.

Review: The Soul Interiors bring a touch of mystery to their two-track release on Kent Dance Records. Recorded in 1972 under the guidance of Mickey Stevenson, this release captures the spirit of classic soul with a modern twist. Side-1 features 'The Inside Guy,' a track with a strong vocal presence and an infectious groove that's become a favorite on the rare soul dance scene. It's been lighting up dancefloors and now sees its first official release. On Side-2, 'My Friend Heartaches' delivers a deeper, more reflective soul sound. The harmonies here are rich and evocative, making it a gem for fans of heartfelt, emotive soul music. Though the group's lineup remains unknown, their sound draws many comparisons to classic artists from the late 60s and early 70s, adding an extra layer of intrigue to this already compelling release.

Review: Edric Connor's 'Manchester United Calypso' is a timeless masterpiece that captures the spirit and joy of football. Originally released 70 years ago, its legacy continues to resonate with fans, heard echoing through the terraces of Old Trafford and beyond. This reissue, featuring Lord Kitchener's 'Manchester Football Double' on the B-Side, is a delightful treat for fans of vintage calypso and Manchester United alike. The 7" vinyl format, coupled with Stan Chow's stunning artwork, makes it a real treat. With its soulful and uplifting vibes, 'Manchester United Calypso' is not just a song; it's a celebration of football and the enduring spirit of one of the world's most iconic clubs.

Review: The double-sider 'Black Mother Goose' with 'Chase Those Clouds Away' is a substantial release from the early 70s soul scene, making waves at the Twisted Wheel and Blackpool Mecca. On Side-1, 'Black Mother Goose' offers a rare gem of early soul, highlighted by its brilliant horn section that gives the track a rich, dynamic sound. Side-2's 'Chase Those Clouds Away' channels a feel-good vibe reminiscent of Percy Sledge or Otis Redding, delivering a soulful anthem perfect for summer. This track radiates peace and love, embodying the spirit of the era with its uplifting melody and heartfelt performance. Both sides showcase a blend of classic soul influences and are essential listens for soul fans.

Review: Sade's first album in ten years at the time, 2010's Soldier of Love reaffirmed her unique place in music. In an era dominated by bombastic pop acts, her signature blend of smooth grooves and restrained emotion still stands out today. The album maintains that classic sound while subtly incorporating new elements, like the dub-esque snare crashes on 'Babyfather.' Sade's music, often characterised by its tasteful understatement, captures moods with nuance and precision, such as the haunting piano motif that runs through 'Morning Bird'. With its soothing allure and timeless appeal, Sade once again proves why she remains unparalleled in her craft.

Review: Bobby Hutton, the first singer featured on Soul Train in 1971, sees his rare soul classic 'Lend A Hand' reissued by Expansion. Originally released in 1973, this track is a soulful gem that resonates with fans and collectors alike. On Side-1, 'Lend A Hand' stands out as an impressive track, showcasing Hutton's powerful vocals and emotional depth. Side-2 features 'Come See What's Left Of Me,' originally from 1969. A soulful and elegant experience, highlighting Hutton's early work. Both songs are certified rare and classic soul, making this reissue an appealing one for those who appreciate timeless, heartfelt music.

Review: LRK Records proudly presents their latest limited edition 45, featuring Dylan Chambers with the tracks 'I Can Never Get Enough' and 'Comin' Up' (LRK-28). Hailing from Arlington, TX, Chambers is a talented vintage pop, R&B, and soul artist known for his smooth vocals and guitar laent. After opting out of Berklee College of Music, Dylan moved to Los Angeles, where he built an impressive career, sharing the stage with artists like Haley Reinhart, Gavin DeGraw, and Three Dog Night. 'I Can Never Get Enough' is exactly what many Soul music fans look for in vintage production and vocal talent. With a great flip side to balance it,this 45 is great for fans of contemporary soul with a nostalgic twist.

Review: A sophisticated blend of electronic, funk and soul, originally released in 1991 and back here in 7" form. Side-1 features 'Try My Love,' an underground jam that highlights Washburn's ability to blend these genres into a classy, enjoyable track. Side-2 presents the 2024 Boogie Back remix of 'Try My Love,' which smoothes things out and transforms the original into a melodic disco groove. This remix adds a fresh, modern twist while retaining the soulful essence of the track.

Review: James Alexander Bright's new sinle, Cool Cool, is a sonic kaleidoscope brimming with vibrant sounds and deep emotion. Bright's distinctive voice, reminiscent of Eddie Chacon, Beck or Michael McDonald, shines throughout. His multi-instrumental prowessiplaying guitar, bass, keys, and moreiadds layers of complexity to the record. Cool Cool illustrates Bright's evolving sound and unwavering creativity, making it a compelling addition to his diverse discography. The 'ECLA Beautiful dub' adds a great alternative version that provides a broken down moody version of the original to balance the 7". Both sides are excellent.

Review: The 1973 album Piece of the Action by Bobby Hutton has been reissued on vinyl for the first time since its original release. Hailing from Detroit, Hutton began his career after winning a talent show at the 20 Grand nightclub and went on to perform on the inaugural nationally broadcast Soul Train episode in 1971. Influenced by Jackie Wilson, he transitioned from writing under his birth name, Harold Hutton, to adopting the stage name Bobby Hutton, encouraged by Billy Davis at Chess Records. Hutton's journey through labels saw him eventually land at Philips, where he created the Northern Soul classic 'Come See What's Left Of Me,' famously played at the Stafford All-Nighters in the mid-80s. With standout contributions from Patti Hamilton, Jean Plum, Mikki Farrow, and Frankie Karl. The Gary Wright-penned 'Lend A Hand,' championed by DJ Colin Curtis in 1974, remains a defining track, marking a high point in Northern Soul history.

Review: Willie Tee's I'm Only a Man LP is a rare gem from 1970, originally released on Capitol Records and now making a grand reappearance via a limited-edition reissue. Willie Tee, a New Orleans-based pianist and vocalist, poured his heart and soul into this album, blending raw r&b energy with refined soul production. Known for his fiery 45s during the 60s, Willie brought that same fervor to his debut album. Under the masterful production of David Axelrod and arrangements by HB Barnum, the album envelops Willie's rich, raspy voice with lush strings, vibrant brass, and a groove-driven rhythm section. Tracks like 'Bring On The Heartaches,' 'I'm Only a Man,' and 'Loneliness' showcase his emotive delivery, while 'Walk Tall' and 'Reach Out for Me' highlight the album's dynamic range. This LP also features unexpected delights, like the big band-influenced 'I'm Related to You.' This reissue is a celebration of a record that has quietly captivated collectors and soul enthusiasts for decades, now brought back to life with a fresh, vibrant pressing.

Review: Paula Parfitt and Jeannie Dee deliver soulful magic on this split single. Paula Parfitt, who signed with Milton Samuels' Beacon label in 1969, made her debut with the single 'I'm Gonna Give You Back Your Ring.' Though initially overlooked, on Side-2, 'Love Is Wonderful' became a Northern Soul classic, lighting up dance floors for over five decades. After a brief stint recording for Beacon's UpFront label and later in Italy, Paula settled into Mediterranean life. Jeannie Dee, from Brixton, London, joined Beacon Records in 1968 as part of the duo Jon (aka Terry) and Jeannie. Known for soulful covers, Jeannie's solo rendition of the Supremes' hit 'Come See About Me,' produced by Donnie Elber, showcases her powerful voice. Often mistaken for her American namesake, Jeannie brought a unique British twist to classic soul, making her mark on the scene, and this release is respectful to both artists' enduring influence.

Review: Live At the Opera House captures Sylvester's legendary 1979 concert at the San Francisco War Memorial Opera House in full, previously available only in heavily edited excerpts. This release features 13 unedited songs and a recording of the mid-concert ceremony where Sylvester received the key to San Francisco, offering over two hours of music. The album package includes newly discovered photographs and liner notes by Joshua Gamson, author of "The Fabulous Sylvester: The Legend, The Music, The Seventies in San Francisco." Sylvester, the undisputed queen of disco, delivers a performance that is both a musical triumph and a cultural milestone. With over 20 top 10 dance hits throughout his career, Sylvester's legend continues to shine brightly with his vast catalog. This live album is an beacon to his enduring influence and the vibrant energy of his music, making it an essential piece for any disco aficionado.

Review: On Good Together, Lake Street Dive embraces a renewed sense of purpose and focus on unity amidst social divisions. Described as "joyful rebellion", the album blends energetic, danceable sounds with a defiant, principled message that makes a long-lasting impression. "There's so much pain and division but living in anger isn't sustainable," drummer Mike Calabrese explains adding, "Joy is a powerful way to sustain yourself, and we wanted to remind people of that." The album he has made with his bandmates was produced by Grammy-winner Mike Elizondo and is the first time they collaborated on songwriting from the start. In turn, this expanded their creative range and has brought a new depth to their sound.

Review: Rance Allen masterfully bridges gospel and soul, delivering two powerful tracks that radiate spirit and groove. On 'Everybody's Talkin'', you can sense the impending influence of disco, with a rhythmic pulse that's both uplifting and infectious. Rance's voice, supported by his brothers and some of Stax's finest musicians, channels the soul of Isaac Hayes, creating a smooth, expansive sound. 'You Need A Friend Like Mine' is a very complimentary song to 7"). Rance's falsetto soars to emotional heights, reminiscent of vocal legends like Al Green and Rev. Claude Jeter, giving the song a heartfelt and communal feel. Rance's music always went beyond entertainmentiit was an invitation to uplift and connect, encouraging joy, kindness, and spiritual reflection. This 45 is a shining example of his ability to move hearts and souls.

Review: The soulful gospel-funk fusion of the Howard Lemon Singers has long been catnip to collectors and now their fantastic 1977 album Seasons, originally released on TK Records' Gospel Roots label, gets a welcome reissue. It is back on vinyl courtesy of Regrooved Records and is an album which blends traditional gospel with modern soul and shows the group's powerful vocals and inspirational messages have stood the test of time. Standout track 'You Are Somebody' delivers a message of affirmation and empowerment and the reissue preserves the album's original essence while also enhancing its rich sound. Whether you're a longtime gospel fan or new to the genre, Seasons is a timeless celebration of faith, resilience, and the beauty of the human spirit.

Review: The second release in the popular cover series brings fresh takes on classics by the Bee Gees and Stevie Wonder. Pulled from the Sweet Breeze and Sweet Breeze II compilations, these 7" cuts feature Mai Yamanaka's sweet and elegant vocals. The daughter of the late Joe Yamanaka delivers standout lounge-style renditions, turning 70s and 80s hits into soulful city pop gems. The Bee Gees' 'Stayin' Alive' gets a light and rhythmic treatment is sure to turn heads. Stevie Wonder's 'Isn't She Lovely' is reimagined with a bright, high-pitched vocal that adds a cool layer of charm. Mai's vocal add a unique charm to the original tracks while doing a great job of making them her own. Perfect for DJs looking to spin something fun, this 45 is sure to put a smile on everyone's face.

Review: Duke Turner's 'Friendship Or Friends' brings together three rare soul gems in one exciting 7" release from Soul Junction Records. On Side-1, the title track delivers a powerful 60s soul sound, featuring a big horn section and Turner's heartfelt vocals. The song is classic soul with its uplifting energy. Following that is an alternative mix of '(Let Me Be Your) Baby Sitter', originally from 1970, where Turner's strong vocals shine alongside rich backing harmonies, adding a touch of warmth and nostalgia. Side-2 slows things down with 'Give Me Some Sugar, Baby', a smooth soul ballad from 1974. The relaxed tempo and Turner's soulful delivery make it a memorable track, showcasing the depth of his emotional range. This 7" is a fantastic opportunity to hear Duke Turner's talent across different soul styles. Each track has its own character, making it a versatile release for any soul music fan.

Review: The Ballads, an Oakland-based group featuring Nathanial Ramerson, Lesley Palmer, Rico Thompson, and John Palmer, made a notable mark with their single 'God Bless Our Love,' which climbed to #8 on the R&B charts and #65 on the Billboard Pop Hot 100 in 1968. Despite their success with this track on Venture Recordsia label established by MGM and helmed by former Motown A&R director William "Mickey" Stevensonitheir time with the label was brief. The Gift Of Love features a blend of soulful tracks including 'You're The One,' 'I Love You, Yeah,' and 'Goodnight My Love,' showing the group's vocal charm and heartfelt lyrics. Although their commercial success was limited, the compilation offers a glimpse into their potential and includes all eight Venture releases along with some previously unreleased material. For collectors and soul enthusiasts, this vinyl is a monumental collection of 1960s r&b.

Review: Shinbangumi is the third LP from multi-instrumentalist Lew, marks a significant evolution for the Southern California artist Ginger Root. Seamlessly blending 70s and 80s influences like Japanese City Pop, Philly Soul, and French Pop, Lew's sound is a sophisticated mix of synth-pop, alt-disco, boogie, and soul. Shinbangumi stands out not only for its musical strength but also for its conceptual narrative, continuing from the 2022 EP Nisemono. Tracks like 'No Problems' and 'Better Than Monday' exhibit Lew's knack for combining catchy melodies with clever production. 'There Was A Time' and 'All Night' highlight his ability to craft both introspective and dance-worthy tunes. 'Only You' delves into true City Pop, while 'Giddy Up' channels the quirky energy of The B-52s and Devo. 'Kaze,' recorded in Tokyo, adds a unique texture inspired by Yellow Magic Orchestra's Harry Hosono. Lew's dedication to his craft and his fans is more than evident here.

Review: The latest addition to the Mood Mosaic series is a soulful, groove-filled treasure, perfect for late-night listening. Pressed on lush green vinyl and complete with a poster, this collection delivers some long-awaited, funky vibes that build on the style of previous volumes while offering fresh, extended edits that amplify the funkiest elements of each track. Highlights include Leon Haywood's sultry 'Want A Do Something Freaky To You' and Flowers' 'For Real (extra long version),' which keeps the groove going with infectious energy. Starvue's 'Body Fusion' and Hipnotic's 'Are You Lonely' add smooth, seductive rhythms, while Herbie Hancock's 'Stars In Your Eyes' brings a touch of jazz-infused soul. The new edits, like 'Closer Closer (edit)' by Celi Bee & The Buzzy Bunch and 'Feel The Heat (edit)' by Kathy Baker, offer fresh takes that enhance the late-night vibe. With tracks that flow seamlessly from one to the next, this set is a stellar mix of classic funk and soul with a contemporary twist.