Soul Shake Sounds
I started collecting soul music in the very early 80s, sparked by hearing my older brother playing jazzfunk around the house. That early exposure opened the door to a lifelong passion. Before long, I found myself drawn into the modern soul scene, especially after discovering The Backstreet Soul Club in Norwich. It was there that I first met fellow collector Andy Etheridge, who became a longtime friend. Together, we travelled across the country to various allnighters, including the legendary Rock City.
My first DJ set came on Boxing Day 1987 at the Burnley and Pendle Soul Club, thanks to an invitation from Pat Allen.
I was fortunate to live close to Soul Bowl and the late John Anderson, and I was a regular visitor, always on the hunt for something special. My all-time favourite soul record is by Ebony Expressions – ‘Farewell My Love’ (owl), which happened to be the last record I ever purchased from John.
As the years have passed, my tastes have evolved. I’ve grown to appreciate the slower, deeper side of soul, which has become the main focus of my collection today. These days, I’m more of an armchair collector, but the love for the music — and the memories it carries — has never faded.
Life’s Story “Are You For Real?” (Strength Records) 7′
Out of Ohio U.S.A from 1984. Not instantly recognisable as a duet on the first play but a few spins later it becomes clear. Haunting flute lead intro with a strong male lead joined soon by the female more prominent on the chorus.
One of those records that builds as it goes on. Takes a few spins but a lovely soul 45.
High Voltage “If You Love Me” (Chekmate Records) 7′
Came out in 1988 but sounds a bit earlier. Excellent horns and lovely falsetto throughout a dreamy 45.
The other side may have had a few spins on the modern scene – not sure they realise what is on the flipside.
A west coast group who I can’t find any info about but the start of this reminds me of an O’jays record which i can’t quite put my finger on at the moment. Perhaps they were fans.
Movin’ “Stranger’s Eyes (Skyhigh Records) 7′
Released in 1984 on Skyhigh Records out of Dallas Texas.
On first listen I would have said it was from ohio until I read the label address.
A sax lead intro leading into to a really nice falsetto. Quite a catchy record leaning towards a mid tempo.
The other side “Start all over again” may attract modern soul interest but doubtful.
The Magician (Kirshner sound acetate) 7′
I pick up an unissued acetate a few years ago with an unknown artist singing.
From what I have found out these acetates were cut by a songwriter obviously armed with a singer to sell songs to record companies hoping a major artist would use.
This rather twee falsetto ballad from mid 70s could have been aimed at groups such as The Phillly Devotions, Delphonics or Stylistics who at the time were putting out stuff like that.
Vocally whoever is singing it could easily be mistaken for leads in the groups mentioned.
This type of soul used to go to Japan in my early days of collecting records. A proper sweet soul 45.
First Class “Love Is Real” (Bevnik Records) 7′
On the same label as Smooth & co , Bobby Finch and of course Jay Player.
This is, I think the last 45 from the famous Baltimore group First Class.
An early 80s masterclass in group harmony soul that gets better every time I play it.
I didn’t think I would top the Sivilles-Falling in like (Infinity) from that period but i think this just beats it.
Such a good record.
Mesmeric “LA,LA (Wilbro Records) 7′
I know nothing about this West Coast duo apart from an ep which has a nice mid tempo track on it.
This 45 came out in 1987 and despite the title is a really catchy almost 2 step tune. A really nice Tenor lead with great catch chorus. The backing is probably a bit too electronic for the UK soul scene but I really like it.
Til’ next time – Chris Huggins