Laidback street soul from Hil St Soul, led by UK vocalist Hilary Mwelwa – sounding really great here on this Japanese album that nicely mixes up her groove! There's a strong sound of urban London running through the tracks – a melange of city sounds that differ nicely from the stereotypes showing up on US soul albums of this nature – really setting the scene for Hil to open up her groove, and state her unique perspective on things. Titles include "Copasetik & Cool", which features guest work by Roots Manuva – plus "All That (strings mix)", "What's Goin Down", "Blue Tears", "Alright", "Shine", and "Reach As One". CD

Sweet and soulful fusion from Sherry Winston – a great smooth jazz flute player who was kind of an 80s heir to Bobbi Humphrey or Hilary! The album's a well produced affair throughout – with a number of gentle groovers that slide into a sweet steppers mode – and which are produced with a few 80s touches, but never too many to mar the overall sound. Players include Marcus Miller and Eric Gale – and titles include "Jim Beau", "Chuck's Funk", "The Roach Song", "Song For Jocelyn", and "Do It For Love". LP, Vinyl record album