Back catalogue: Soul

Review: A gatefold curacao blue vinyl reissue marks this album's tenth anniversary, inviting fans to revisit her channelling 40s, 50s, 60s and 70s influences, from doo-wop to disco, with the Pharrell Williams-produced 'Can't Rely On You' leading the charge. The album's homage to bygone eras is evident and the execution does a brilliant job of capturing the spirit of its inspirations. Tracks like 'Only Love Can Hurt Like This' and 'Mouth to Mouth' highlight Faith's vocal prowess and occasional emotional depth. The album's more upbeat numbers, provide the energy needed to balance out the more soulful songs and ballads. Overall, A Perfect Contradiction offers a nostalgic look at retro styles. The reissue's striking curacao blue vinyl adds a visually appealing touch to complete the product nicely,

Review: In 2024, H.E.R. marks the fifth anniversary of her critically acclaimed album I Used To Know Her with a special 2xLP reissue. Featuring all 19 original tracks, including standout hits like 'Could've Been' featuring Bryson Tiller and 'Take You There', this release captures H.E.R.'s signature blend of soul, r&b and introspective lyricism. This edition is a must-have for both longtime fans and new listeners alike.

Review: Rag'n'Bone Man, born Rory Charles Graham, is "embracing joy and balance in his life" as he releases his new album What Do You Believe In?. Known for his gravelly blues vocals, the British singer gained global recognition with his 2016 debut Human, which went platinum four times in the UK and multi-platinum in 27 other countries. Now, supported by family and newfound confidence, Rag'n'Bone Man's latest work blends personal growth with vibrant hooks and takes fans on an uplifting musical journey with title track setting the tone in superb fashion.

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: 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: This soundtrack delves deep into the life and legacy of Sly & The Family Stone, offering an immersive experience of the American funk legends' groundbreaking music and the complexities that shaped their journey. The collection takes listeners through the band's rise to fame, highlighting their timeless funk and soul hits, while also reflecting on the unseen burdens faced by Black artists in America. Notable tracks like 'Sing A Simple Song (Alternate Mix)' and 'Underdog' offer fresh takes on familiar classics, giving fans new perspectives on songs that have long been anthems. There are also remixes, such as J.PERIOD's edits of 'Dance To The Music' and 'Everyday People,' which breathe new energy into the band's beloved sound. The collection also features rare versions of tracks like 'Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin)' and 'Family Affair,' adding to the richness of Sly's musical legacy. By incorporating interviews and insights from figures like Andre 3000, D'Angelo, and George Clinton, the soundtrack elevates the music, providing a context that goes beyond just the sound. It's a poignant reminder of the depth of Sly & The Family Stone's influence, revealing how their music continues to resonate with generations.

Review: This release serves as the perfect companion to the new documentary chronicling Luther Vandross's illustrious career. This compilation offers a definitive look at the r&b legend's most iconic tracks, showcasing his silky voice and timeless songwriting. Spanning decades, the album includes chart-topping hits like 'Power of Love', 'Stop to Love', and his heartfelt duet 'Endless Love'. Fan-favorite ballads like 'A House Is Not a Home' and his soulful rendition of 'Always & Forever' are also here, highlighting his ability to evoke deep emotion with every note. Vandross's journey from a sought-after session singericontributing to David Bowie's Young Americansito a pioneer of lush, romantic r&b and disco is reflected beautifully in this collection. His unique ability to blend vulnerability with vocal mastery cemented his place as one of the greatest voices of all time. This album is a fitting tribute to a career that defined generations of music lovers, offering both longtime fans and newcomers an unforgettable glimpse into Vandross's remarkable legacy.