Verve Vinyl & CDs

Review: The godfather of soul found himself dipping into jazz on this classic but lesser-known album, Soul On Top (Verse By Request Series). Now getting a proper reissue treatment it is sure to convert many new fans to his abilities across the six sizzling tracks from this 1969 album, which includes the classic 'It's a Man's, Man's, Man's World' and a new version of 'Papa's Got A Brand New Bag'. Brown provides the vocals to a 18-piece big band set up that was led by drummer Louis Bellson and arranged by Impulse! star Oliver Nelson. Brown always said he was a jazzman at heart and this goes some way to proving that, with saxophonist Maceo Parker adding plenty of vital swing.

Review: Billie Holiday's 1957 recording stands as a timeless gem in jazz history, showing the unparalleled talent of Lady Day alongside a stellar ensemble. With luminaries like Ben Webster on tenor saxophone, Harry "Sweets" Edison on trumpet, and Jimmy Rowles on piano, Holiday is supported by some of the finest musicians of the era. This audiophile-grade reissue from the Verve/Universal Music Enterprises Acoustic Sounds Series ensures that Holiday's brilliance is preserved in its most authentic form. Mastered by Ryan K. Smith at Sterling Sound from the original analog tapes and pressed on 180-gram vinyl at Quality Record Pressings, the album offers a pristine listening experience. The musicianship on display is exceptional, with each member of the ensemble contributing to the rich tapestry of sound. From the sturdy standards to the luminous renditions of Gershwin classics, Holiday's vocals shine brightly, buoyed by the sensitive accompaniment of her bandmates. The gatefold old-style tip-on jacket, crafted by Stoughton Printing Co, adds a touch of elegance to this collector's item. With its mono presentation, this reissue captures the intimate and authentic sound of the original recording, allowing listeners to experience the timeless beauty of Billie Holiday's artistry. This reissue is perfect for jazz aficionados and audiophiles alike, offering a definitive version of one of the best jazz records ever made.

Review: Nina Simone's 1964 album stands as a powerful testament to her unwavering support for the Civil Rights movement, marking one of her most personal and impactful releases during her time with Philips Records. The album captures Simone at her most fervent and fearless, channeling her artistry into a profound expression of social consciousness. Unlike some of her other works, where orchestration sometimes overshadowed her voice, this gem benefits from a minimalistic yet vibrant jazz quartet, which perfectly complements her bold vocal delivery. Tracks like 'Old Jim Crow,' 'Pirate Jenny,' 'Go Limp,' and the titular 'Mississippi Goddam' emerge as potent declarations of African-American pride and resistance, making this album a landmark in the intersection of music and activism. Simone also revisits more traditional material with grace, including her timeless rendition of 'I Loves You, Porgy' and the soulful 'Don't Smoke in Bed.' Verve's Acoustic Sounds series honors this historic album with a meticulously crafted vinyl reissue. Mastered from the original analog tapes and pressed on 180-gram vinyl, the album is packaged in a deluxe gatefold sleeve, offering an audiophile experience that preserves the integrity of Simone's revolutionary work.

Review: This exclusive double vinyl collection from Wagram brings together the greatest international hits of the naughties. It is a great four-sided collection that covers all of the most famous sounds and artists from the first decade of the 2000s and so is a great cop for anyone who likes to throw a good old nostalgic house party. Along the way are artists like O-Zone, Benny Benassi, Cascada, Vampire Weekend, Madcon, Las Ketchup, Bob Sinclar and more. There is no better way to relive the era's defining sounds than with this curated selection of memorable hits that shaped decades music culture.