Goombay Soul

In order to make up for my lack of posting yesterday (too drunk to blog) I am posting doubly today.

Two of my favorite releases of the summer have come from some of my favorite crate diggers. The folks over at Numero Group offered up new releases in their Eccentric Soul and Cult Cargo series.

Numero Group's Cult Cargo: Grand Bahama Goombay is an exploration of the soul and funk of the island of Grand Bahama. Jay Mitchell, who once toured with my main man, Otis Redding, is the undisputed star of the compilation. Nearly half-an-hour alone is devoted to Mitchell's four tracks. Mitchell's covers of "I Am The Man For You Baby" and "Mustang Sally" are the two standout tracks on Grand Bahama Goombay. "Honesty Is the Best Policy" by The Gospel Chandeliers is also a gospel gem that can't keep you from smiling. Another standout is "Don't Touch That Thing" by Silvia Hall. The track is a funky lesson in life, and reminds me of The Dixie Cups legendary "Iko Iko."

Numero Group's Eccentric Soul: The Prix Label showcases the Columbus, Ohio Prix label. The compilation is a combination of brilliantly vibrant soul and funk. The fast-paced soul of Eddie Ray is the highlight of the record. "Wait A Minute" opens up the album at a blistering pace, and the rest of Ray's tracks are equally superb. Even though Ray steals the show, my heart goes to Joe King's excellent "Speak On Up." It is the type of catchy, bright soul music that makes people listen to soul in the first place.

Jay Mitchell- Mustang Sally
Joe King- Speak On Up