Review

Soul Unsigned - The 2010 Summer Session (Soul Unsigned Records)

Soul Unsigned - The 2010 (Summer) Session compiler Mike Thompson has established himself as one of Europe's top soul and disco DJs over the last 37 years. His career got a break when he was invited to play Disco in a North London Ice Rink aged 11, the first event of its kind in London.

So this man knows his soul and has the credentials to back it up too! 'Barcelona Boogie' makes all the right noises, retro disco drums a two chord see-saw that draws you in and a lovely little synth solo reminds me of early Hi Tension...yesterdays sounds for today!

Uptown Funk Empire, germany's greatest carry on the disco with a classic track and the talk box effect works a treat on this floor filler. The mood changes by the time Duane Williams unleashes his majestic soul vocals with a gem called 'Yes My Love Is Real', reminiscent of Simply Red, a great song let down only by the midi horns, a shame !

Maiko Watson's 'Some Kinda Love' gets the party back on track, this girl has a real edge in her soulful vocals with delicious timbres hitting you like a fruity wine, you can smell the smoke and the organic groove is truly infectious in the pocket and swinging. Soopasoul with Sitzka sees some gritty deep funk getting into the mix a nice Staples type feel and real horns!! Keep fuelling the flames of funk guys this is quality! 'Judderbass' feat. Jessica Brown sees Thompson take the mixing duties on by himself on this floorfilla jam and it rocks along nicely with a killer chorus to boot!

This compilation is hugely impressive, showing you how much talent is out there and what can be achieved with a limited budget - some kicking beats and inventiveness goes along way!
Words Emrys Baird