New releases last two weeks: Soul

Review: UK soul hero Omar steps up with his ninth studio album, bringing the depth, clarity and control that have typified his uncompromising and deeply rooted musical journey. The songwriting is tight, the grooves are locked, and the arrangements leave space for the music to breathe. His voice is as expressive as ever i warm, precise, unmistakably his. There's a strong sense of shape to the album, from the clipped funk of 'Research' to the more open, reflective tone of 'There's Much Love in the World'. Strings, samples and live instrumentation all sit together naturally, with nothing overplayed or overstated. The ensemble guest appearances i India Arie, Giggs, Paul Weller, Raheem DeVaughn among them i add some masterful flourishes to an already engaging set. Always good to hear new music from the one like Omar, a man who will never be underrated by those in the know.

Review: This five-disc CD set has an impressively broad and satisfying journey through one of the most dynamic decades in popular music. From glam to disco, punk to singer-songwriter balladry, soul to soft rock, each disc brings together an eclectic mix of tracks that still feels essential. The opening tracks boast undeniable energy: Queen's 'Don't Stop Me Now' and ELO's 'Mr Blue Sky' remain joyful anthems, while Blondie's 'Heart of Glass' and Gary Numan's 'Cars' introduce a touch of post-punk and synth-pop futurism. As the compilation moves into moodier and more socially charged fare, the inclusion of The Clash's 'London Calling' and Marvin Gaye's 'What's Going On' add depth and urgency, but there are moments of sheer beauty like Joan Armatrading's 'Love and Affection' and Justin Hayward's 'Forever Autumn' too. The disco era gets a full-bodied celebration with staples like Gloria Gaynor's 'I Will Survive', Chic's 'Good Times' and Earth Wind and Fire's 'September', each one carrying the rhythm and flair that defined dancefloors at the time. Meanwhile, soft rock and radio-friendly hits like 10cc's 'I'm Not In Love' and Bread's 'Make It With You' provide smoother, introspective tones. Nostalgic singalongs such as 'Sweet Caroline', 'Mull of Kintyre' and 'Tie a Yellow Ribbon' add a glimpse of warmth that remains from the 60s. Each track is a classic in its own right, but together they form a kaleidoscope of 70s culture.