Juno Recommends Soul: October 2024

Review: Recorded following the release of his near-perfect What's Going On Album, with production and arrangement by the Mizell brothers, 'Where Are We Going?' was one of Marvin Gaye's most prophetic singles. Another conscious soul gem - albeit one with a warmer and fuller sound than the distinctively sparse What's Going On album - it was intended to be the centre piece of an album called You're The Man - a set that was subsequently shelved and eventually posthumously released many years later. This Expansion 7" reissue replicates the track listing of the original Motown "45", pairing the brilliant 'Where Are We Going' with the heartfelt and life-affirming celebration of female empowerment that is 'Woman of the World'. An essential reissue!

Review: After a pause since last March, Soul Flip Edits returns with a fresh new logo and a highly anticipated new Soul Flip outing on 7" vinyl. To mark this comeback, the much loved label has reimagined a classic: Sam & Dave's 'Soul Man' and they have givien it a punchy update that stays true to the original's vibe. On the B-side, they've reworked 'Now That We Found Love' by The O'Jays by adding a smooth touch that promises to keep dancers moving. Both tracks bring timeless soul energy with an enhanced twist so are two perfectly "flipped" soul anthems ready for the party.

Review: A masterful ode to 70s soul, created in collaboration with Ray Hayden's Opaz, reviving the timeless spirit of rare groove, bringing forth deep rhythms, lush arrangements and vocals that feel like they're lifted straight from an era of analogue richness. Flip to the other side, 'Holding You Tight' drifts into a slower, entrancing space that closes with an instrumental coda; a feast for the senses. Mixed and mastered by Ray Hayden on vintage gear, this record's journey to vinyl delivers a truly transportive experience that's all warmth, soul and authenticity.

Review: There are few more classic albums that are ripe for reissue on National Album Day than this one from British funk and soul pioneers Soul II Soul. It is now 35 years old but has more than stood the test of time and this picture disc version is the ultimate collectors piece featuring the group's signature Funki Dredd logo. Musically it has all the key singles 'Fairplay', which led the way for unparalleled chart success here and in the US, as well as follow-up, 'Feel Free', third single 'Keep on Movin'' and plenty more, all of which still get big reactions in any set to this day.

Review: Fresh off the back of Kiwi soul superstar's Jamie And The Numbers' debut album You Don't Love Me comes a new follow-up 7", 'Seven Days Too Long', indicative of much more to come where that came from. Here the New Zealand vocalist comes again backed by Craig Lerwill, Geoff Lerwill, Mark Lerwill, and Simon Bayliss for yet another true-to-form 7"; they're no strangers to the format, having already released over eight of them via the Deltaphonic label. 'Seven Days Too Long' and 'Save You' are both bittersweet anti-canticles, dealing in themes of post-breakup obsession and longing, and reconciliation as healing.

Review: The 7" Douchetown brings together Queen Beach Killer Cat and Page 99 for a pair of smooth, soulful lounge tracks that transport listeners to a retro-infused world. Side-1 features Queen Beach Killer Cat's 'Douchetown,' a track that channels the essence of late 70s smooth soul, funk, and disco. With its laid-back groove and soulful blend, it's reminiscent of Boz Scaggs' finest moments, while the title adds a touch of tongue-in-cheek irony to the relaxed vibe. On Side-2, Page 99 teams up with Queen Beach Killer Cat for a lounge-inspired cover of Van Halen's 'Why Can't This Be Love.' The clever reimagining transforms the rock classic into a mellow, jazzy rendition, making this release a delightful fusion of nostalgia and originality.

Review: This powerhouse 7" pairs two iconic tracks that have left lasting marks on music history. On one side, Gloria Jones' original 1964 version of 'Tainted Love' shines. Written by Ed Cobb and featuring Glen Campbell on lead guitar, this track laid the foundation for what would later become a global sensation with Soft Cell's 1981 synthpop rework. Jones' vocal delivery is fierce, underscored by Cobb's brilliant production and Lincoln Mayorga's sharp arrangement. Flip it over, and you get R. Dean Taylor's 'There's a Ghost in My House,' an infectious Northern soul anthem. Originally recorded in 1966 and written by Motown legends Holland-Dozier-Holland, it gained momentum in British dance clubs before soaring to number three on the UK charts in 1974. Taylor's commanding vocal cuts through the track's driving beat, making it an enduring favourite. These two songs together bring a vibrant blend of soul, grit and history to any collection.

Review: In 1977 in Portland, writer Ron Stassens assembled members of Pleasure and Transport around Slickaphonic frontman Milton Davis and the result was an album's worth of amazingly soulful disco-funk, re-released in July 2023 under the Albina Music Trust label... However, here for the first time ever, on Soul7/Jazzman records' picture sleeved 7" 45, Milton Davis returns home in this most apt of formats, on only 500 numbered copies with the stand out 'Headed For The Disco'. A gorgeously sweet solid gold soul track that ventures into jazz funk at the beautifully timed electric guitar and organ breaks where the 'get down' is inevitable but satisfyingly returns to the repetitive refrains of the melody. Joyously extending what disco truly means, be that a hustle or a step back, here the breadth of this uplifting genre is celebrated, concluding in a lush decrescendo 'aaaahhhh...'. Add this to the more mid-tempo classically soulful smoochy B-side 'All I Want To Do' and you won't want to hang around, as Soul 7/Jazzman singles whilst applauding rarer grooves notoriously become collectables in themselves.

Review: Derwin Daniels, an accomplished soprano saxophonist and composer, crafted this smooth r&b 45 back in 1989. Featuring the powerhouse vocals of the late La Donna Wells, who delivers a performance on par with Mary J Blige, this gem pre-dates "What's The 411" by three years. The track oozes slick, deep r&b vibes that are soulful enough to fit seamlessly into modern soul and disco sets. On the flip side, Daniels treats listeners to some jazzy brilliance, showcasing his versatility as a musician. An essential find.

Review: Thee Sacred Souls return with their highly anticipated album Got A Story To Tell, a collection of 12 original songs full of their exquisite craftsmanship. The album, recorded and produced by Gabriel Roth at Penrose Recorders, captures the band's evolution through intense touring and creative growth. The lead single 'Lucid Girl' sets the stage, celebrating independent women with tough drums and bass, and a compelling narrative delivered by Josh Lane's pure tenor. Special guest Larry Rendon on saxophone adds a historic touch, linking the band's name to East LA's Thee Midniters. Tracks like 'Waiting On The Right Time' and 'One and the Same' explore themes of empathy and unity, blending slow-burning psychedelia with soul. The album's rich instrumentation, including strings, congas, and horns, creates a timeless sound that rewards repeated listens. Thee Sacred Souls have crafted an album that is both a nod to soul music's past and a statement for the present, ensuring their story continues to grow.

Review: Acid Jazz presents a special edition 12" EP, 'Extended Versions', offering an expanded look at the album's tracks, showcasing the featured musicians and collaborators. Producer Tristan Longworth has crafted these extended versions, allowing the music to breathe and the players to shine. The late Pat West's performance on 'Anything' is given ample room to resonate, while Nigel Price's stunning guitar intro on 'Don't Forget About Love' takes centre stage. Elsewhere, backing vocals and Mick Talbot's gospel-tinged organ elevate Leah Weller's 'Everyday Summer' to ecstatic heights. The Lee-Talbot co-write 'Walk Away' features an extended play-out, highlighting Nigel Price's classy jazz guitar playing. This EP isn't just a collection of extended mixes; it's a celebration of musicianship and collaboration. It's a chance to hear these songs in a new light, to appreciate the nuances and subtleties that might be missed on the album versions.

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: Jalen Ngonda's debut LP, Come Around and Love Me, is a soul lover's dream come true. Released on the esteemed Daptone Records, this album is a shining example of Jalen's extraordinary talent and deep roots in the rich tradition of soul music. At just 28 years old, Jalen has already built an impressive career, performing at major festivals like Newport Folk and sharing stages with legends like Lauryn Hill and Laura Mvula. His recent solo performances, particularly on tour with Thee Sacred Souls, have further cemented his reputation as one of the most exciting voices in contemporary soul. Jalen's journey began in a suburb of Washington D.C., where he was steeped in the sounds of Motown, courtesy of his father's CD collection. This early exposure to icons like The Temptations and Smokey Robinson sparked a lifelong passion for music that led him from the church organ to the Liverpool Institute for the Performing Arts, where he honed his powerful, nuanced voice. Come Around and Love Me is the culmination of this journey. The album, produced at Brooklyn's Hive Mind Studios with a team of top-notch musicians, captures the essence of classic soul while infusing it with a modern sensibility. Jalen's voice, rich and soulful, weaves through lush arrangements and introspective lyrics, creating a sound that feels both timeless and fresh.

Review: The latest 45 from Durand Jones & The Indications, out on Colemine Records, brings together two tracks from their previous LP, Private Space. Now lovingly refitted for 7" play as only the best cinematic soul should, the A-side of this record contains the album's title track. It comes in the form of a laid back, string-strung, smoothened progression, on which guitarist Blake Rhein plays minimal but on-the-money strokes, and the ever falsetto'ing Durand Jones sings creatively of and in tribute to the many cordoned-off corners, hiding places and hind spaces of the world; the essential vectors of lovemaking. The flip shakes up the ambiance to a higher set of stakes, deploying an upper-tempo, flunkie disco-funk, to hearsaid but hopeful talk of seas of love.

Review: Isaac Hayes, one of soul music's most iconic and influential figures, is celebrated in Hot Buttered Singles, a collection that captures his enduring impact as a singer, songwriter, and arranger. Known for his groundbreaking contributions to Stax Records' Enterprise label, Hayes pioneered the genre of "symphonic soul," blending lush orchestrations with the raw emotion of soul music. His albums remain masterpieces, sounding as great today as they did upon release. While Hayes is renowned for his albums, he also enjoyed immense success on the singles charts, with 16 consecutive r&b hits between 1969 and 1976, many of which also crossed over into pop. Hot Buttered Singles is the first collection to present all his Stax-era 45s in their original versions, including A and B sides in chronological order. Disc one features classics like 'Walk on By' and 'I Stand Accused', while disc two includes hits such as 'Theme from Shaft', 'Never Can Say Goodbye' and 'Let's Stay Together'. This collection is an ideal way to experience Hayes' music as it was originally heard on radio, preserving the legacy of one of soul music's true legends in a fresh, definitive way.

Review: Deep Soul have uncovered an exquisite gem in Miss Louistine's sultry version of Sam Dees' 'Con Me'. No stranger to Dees' compositional range, having previously excelled in the dancetastic floor filler 'Extra Extra', now soak up this deeply luxurious Southern soul ballad of exploitative and irresistible love. Marvel at the seductive vocal control complimenting the song's ironic sentiment and then, to truly underscore the power of exceptional lyrics, enjoy Dees rendition as the flip side and muse upon the significance of different voices, tempos and registers. Yet, the message remains the same, in this unissued track until Kent accessed the tapes in 1998. Yes, Miss Louistine's version may seem smoother at first but its commanding tone belies a potency that the vulnerability of Dees rawer version can only hope for in this intelligent pairing by Deep Soul Records, now under the umbrella of Ace Records. So, enjoy the gorgeous sleeve and label design, put the record on and delight in the beauty of intensely authentic soul singing but get in there quick as these Kent singles do not stay around for long.

Review: These two Mirwood classics are well-known and well-loved so don't need much hype, but having both tracks on the same 45 is a true treat. 'That Beatin' Rhythm' epitomises the Northern Soul dance scene and is still drawing dancers to the floor all these years on. The instrumental flip is credited to the singer of the A-side and was also hugely popular back in the day but has received less attention in recent years with the vocal version dominating DJ spins. This pairing is a potent one that still very much gets us up and going.

Review: After months of work on it, Soul Direction releases a carefully crafted collection of 15 group soul tracks, including three previously unreleased gems. This first 12" album collaboration with The Decisions marks a special milestone that traces the Atlanta group's evolution from their early days in the '60s through their journey with the York and Sussex labels. Side one spotlights York Records' releases from 1969 paired with rare recordings remastered by Soul Direction between 2021-2023. Side two features three unreleased tracks, including 'You Ain't Got My Love' and 'Sweet Virginia' along with songs produced under Clarence Avant's Sussex label that capture The Decisions' unique and influential sound.

Review: One of two new Soul4Real 45s releases, Candi Staton's 'I Can't Stop Being Your Fool' is a candid expression of heartsickness and toxic attachment. The Alabaman southern soul laid these two recordings bare at least 20 years into her towering career, in which time Staton had embarked on a new career leg at Warner Bros. Never paired before, 'I Can't Stop...' and 'You Bet Your Sweet, Sweet Love' share in similar themes, confounding the listener in projective throes of uncertainty, over such topics as whether the thrill of love might be worth it despite fraught or downright abusive downturns; Staton's lyrics are tired, grief-stricken and persevering, though the background instrumentation is always jolly, suggesting either an eerie facade, or a romanticised, brunt-borne happiness.

Review: The creation of Got A Story To Tell was a transformative journey for Thee Sacred Souls, recorded and produced at Daptone's Penrose Recorders by Gabriel Roth in Riverside, CA. Written amidst the whirlwind of their acclaimed 2022 album tour, the process tested and strengthened the band, leading to their most compelling songs yet. Founding members Alejandro Garcia, Salvador Samano, and Josh Lane crafted the album, enriched by a lineup of horn players, string artists, percussionists, organists, and background vocalists. Notably, Larry Rendon from Thee Midniters, an iconic East LA band, joined on saxophone, connecting the album to soul music's rich history. Got A Story To Tell resonates with a timeless quality, blending soul influences with a contemporary edge. Tracks like the empowering 'Lucid Girl,' driven by Garcia's potent drums and Samano's resonant bass, set a vibrant tone. The album unfolds with narratives and characters, from the psychedelic allure of 'Waiting On The Right Time' to the poignant plea for empathy in 'One and the Same.'

Review: Greenwood's 'Sparkle,' originally recorded in 1985 and long forgotten, found a second life thanks to Tokyo's DJ Muro, who included it in his Hawaiian Breaks mixtape in 2009. This unexpected resurgence of interest prompted Greenwood to return to the studio, resulting in a full-length album in 2014 that featured a newly polished version. Aloha Got Soul brings both the original 1985 and 2014 versions of together on a 7" vinyl, now available in a stunning 'sparkling' gold variant. The track, a brilliant English adaptation from the city pop master Tatsuro Yamashita's For You album, is pure 1980s city pop with its shimmering production and infectious groove. Greenwood's newfound success with "Sparkle" has reignited their passion, leading to the release of their sophomore album, Music Book, which continues their exploration of city pop with more Tatsuro Yamashita covers. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the band, this single is a delightful piece of music history, offering a perfect blend of nostalgia and timeless charm.

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: The latest release from Craft Recordings shifts its focus to soul legend Johnnie Taylor, highlighting his deep connection to blues. Known for his Southern soul roots, Taylor's legacy extends far beyond his mainstream hit 'Disco Lady'. Born in Arkansas in 1934, Taylor began his career in gospel before making a name at Stax Records with hits like 'Who's Making Love', which cemented his place in soul history. This new release, One Step From The Blues, dives into Taylor's more blues-focused work, showcasing 12 powerful tracks that capture the raw emotion of heartbreak and betrayal. The album features Taylor's debut Stax single 'I Had a Dream', a sparse and intense standout, along with tracks like 'Cheaper to Keep Her' and a vibrant cover of Sam Cooke's 'That's Where It's At', Each song is delivered with Taylor's unmistakable voice, drawing from both his gospel and blues roots. With the support of top Memphis musicians and insightful new liner notes from journalist Andria Lisle, One Step From The Blues is a brilliant celebration of Taylor's lasting influence, as he marks his 90th birthday this year.

Review: Ramrock Retro strikes gold again with Aaron Neville's soulful classic 'Hercules.' This track instantly stirs real emotions with Neville's effortless, heartfelt vocals, deep-swinging drums and classy horns. A falsetto at the breakdown elevates the song before the rhythm powers on. On the flip side, Al Jarreau's 'Use Me' delivers familiar yet timeless vibes. Whether you prefer this version or others, the result is always the same: deep, slow-motion funk with a sensual, groovy edge that you will not want to end.

Review: QASB's Kono Machi De single, released on Soul Garden Japan, is a vibrant blend of Japanese soul with jazz funk and city pop influences. Side-1 features the Shuya Okino edit of 'Kono Machi De Aka In This Town,' which emphasises a groovy rhythm, enhancing the track's infectious energy. Side-2, has the original version which delivers a feel-good mix of disco strings and a lively horn section, reminiscent of Taste of Honey. Written by Moritaka as a tribute to her hometown Kumamoto, the song includes a nod to Tomari River, a location tied to collaborator Yuichi Takahashi. Having the option of both versions make this 7" a great little 45 to have.

Review: Slowly teams up with Swish Jaguar to deliver a stunning cover of Wee's mellow soul classic 'You Can Fly On My Aeroplane.' This dreamy lovers' soul track beautifully blends vintage vibes with modern flair, featuring the talkbox talents of Swish Jaguar (aka Sam Wish), known for his work with Tuxedo. The collaboration shines with Yusuke Hirado's smooth Fender Rhodes and Tsuyoshi Kosuga's versatile guitar and bass work, creating a lush, nostalgic soundscape.Side-1's vocal track exudes warmth and elegance, perfect for setting the mood at any soul or funk set. On Side-2, the instrumental version offers DJs a versatile tool to weave into their mixes. With its impeccable musicianship and timeless appeal, this 7" bridges the gap between classic soul and contemporary groove.