Weller, Paul Presents: That Sweet Sweet Music - Various Artists

The Modfather, a long-time soul fan and record collector, teamed up with the mighty ACE records, to produce something truly wonderful. Sweet Sweet Music encompasses many styles of soul music with Weller saying that “soul soundtracked my early life” and that is evident in his selections.

Expertly put together with some names you may recognise, but many you won’t. There’s the jazz-funk of The Headhunters, northern soul fans will love the guaranteed floor-filler ‘Breakaway’ by The Valentines. ‘Black Balloons’ from Syl Johnson’s masterpiece Is It Because I’m Black is for the conscious soul aficionados, whilst the beautifully produced ‘Top Of The Stairs’ by Collins & Collins is there for disco/soul lovers.

Billy Stewart’s big voice and the immense breakdown on his amazing version of ‘Summertime’ is one of many highlights. There is a fantastic cover version of Gil Scott-Heron’s classic, ‘In The Bottle’ by Brother To Brother, and you will also find the obscure ‘Life Walked Out’ by The Mist, which is a certified banger with amazing harmonies and even a flute solo! Weller’s track choices are impeccable. Every time this album gets spun in the shop, somebody either asks about it or buys it on the spot. He clearly loves music and has curated a compilation that flows beautifully. It’s not just a collection for soul heads, but for anyone who loves music... sweet, sweet music