Soul: now there's an over-used word. Excuse us if we spare you the diatribe about said word, but just take it - in the context of this mighty mix - as interchangeable with 'feeling', of the warm variety. Because this mix has it in abundance.
The Unabombers have been running their top notch Electric Chair night in Manchester for many years. Despite the explosives and capital punishment references, they play it nice not aggressive. Think a dancefloor Gilles Peterson, or disco Carl Craig.
'Electric Soul' is rammed with gems, dug for the most part, from the last three years. There's Detoit new boy and Moodyman-acomplice Amp Fiddler. NYC's very own high priest Osunlade, German bossa-dons Jazzanova and West London's Phil Asher all appear. So you know there's underground quality sounds in abundance.
Metro Area's 'Pina' is always a welcome addition to any mix. Blessed with some of the most divine melodies in existence, it's a must hear.
But the compilation's highlight is definitely a wildcard. Y.B.U.'s 1991 'Soul Magic' might be familiar to Unabomber fans, but it's a delightful surprise to others. With its two-minute beatless intro, it is brave and defiant. When the old school break drops forgiveness is absolute.
What separates this mix from so many other also-rans is the combination of two crucial yet elusive factors: quality selection and excellent placement.
The right tunes at the right moment - there's just no compensating for it.
