Review

Abi Farrell: Empowered (Big AC Records)

Exciting times for all involved at brand new label Big AC Records and especially it's first signee "Abi Farrell, who has hit the ground running recently with her label debut "I Will See You Though" and now keeping up the momentum with sophomore release, "Empowered". Essentially, a bouncing soul-soaked track chock-full of positives, including a standout vocal from an artist on the rise.

Foot tapping production nods firmly in the direction of Motown and those silky '70's soul stompers which underpinned soul's golden era. There's a Motown snare and a Wall Of Sound glockenspiel which go hand in hand with delicious stings and stylish horns… not a huge fan of a wailing guitar in soul numbers in general but hey, that's a personal preference.

Overall, it win-win for this release, as all the above gives Farrell licence to get stuck in vocally and explore her own considerable talent on this soul scorcher. Hats off to new indy soul/funk label bosses Nick Corbin - he of New Street Adventure frontman fame - and wifee, ever-impressive soul/funk DJ Sophie Heath - she of soul/funk supreme duo Noble & Heath fame - for unearthing this diamond. Can't wait to see what's next on the Big AC roster.
Words LEE TYLER