Hurricane (label)
04 July 2011 (released)
05 July 2011
UK Soul legend Beverly Knight has just released her 7th studio album 'Soul UK' as a celebration of British soul music. Taking classics from the past twenty years or so and adding her stamp to them. Artists like Young Disciples, Omar, Freeez, George Michael and Soul II Soul are among the artists included in the album.
The first official single- Junior's 'Mama Used To Say' - was somewhat of a disappointment, however much of the rest of the album is a good covers album.
Opener ’Fairplay’ - was chosen as a club only release, which was a shame. This Soul II Soul reworking is strong, updated and very commercial. Perhaps it's time will come for a full release yet? Else where her workings of Young Disciples gives this classic summer soul track a whole new vibe – faithful to the original but still adding some 21st Century to it. Likewise Omar’s ‘There’s Nothing Like This’ also has a great summer feel with this cover. ‘Southern Freeez’ is another summer vibe – perhaps it was a good move to release this album during the summer!!
For me some tracks miss the mark – Roachford’s ‘Cuddly Toy’ seems to lose impact, perhaps the gender changed lyrics is the issue, or the fact it is a ‘mans’ song. ‘When You Gonna Learn’ also does little for me, but perhaps this is down to my general dislike of Jamiroquoi!!
The surprise track here is probably George Michael’s ‘One More Try’; beautiful original track and great to hear Beverley give it her stamp.
Overall, a good set of 80’s / 90s cover versions. Beverley Knight is a great UK soul singer, but never seems to get the recognition she deserves.
1 Fairplay (Soul II Soul)
2 Southern Freeez (Freeez)
3 Mama Used To Say (Junior)
4 Say I'm Your Number One (Princess)
5 When You Gonna Learn (Jamiroquoi)
6 Apparently Nothin' - Feat. Glen Scott And Roots Manuva (Young Disciples)
7 There's Nothing Like This (Omar)
8 Don't Be A Fool (Loose Ends)
9 Always and Forever (Heatwave)
10 Round And Around (Jackie Graham)
11 Cuddly Toy (Roachford)
12 Damn (Lewis Taylor)
13 One More Try (George Michael)
