Back catalogue: All genres

Review: Berkeley-born Cornell CC Carter returns with 'The Change,' which is the lead single from his upcoming album on Expansion. Initially making waves with his debut album Vindicated Soul in 2017, Carter has become a force in the UK soul scene with subsequent albums such as One Love, Absolutely, and Next Life. With a storied career that includes collaborations with The Isley Brothers and performances alongside James Brown, he has been a staple on Expansion's Soul Togetherness and Luxury Soul series, and graced the stage at the Luxury Soul Weekender in Blackpool. Here 'The Change' comes with 'Sometimes,' which is produced by Brian Carter and offers a nice counterpoint to the a-side.

Review: Killer version of the Lonnie Liston Smith classic monster club track by Incognito side project Citrus Sun featuring Valerie Etienne on vocals.

Review: Collins And Collins were originally at the Top Of The Stairs back in 1980 when this one first landed. It has since become a revered underground classic much loved on the modern soul circuit as a timeless gem. The song was first composed by Ashford & Simpson who recorded their own version but when playing live would switch to the Collins & Collins version. The tune first came on CD via Expansion back in 1993 and now gets a first official 7" version back with the exceptionally rare version of Gamble & Huff's 'You Know How To Make Me Feel So Good' which first was recorded by Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes in 1975.

Review: Released in 1977 on Buddha Records, Norman Connors' heartfelt number 'Once I've Been There' is a lush piece of honest-to-goodness soul music that's long been held in high regard by diggers. It features a powerful vocal performance from Prince Phillip Mitchell, warm orchestral instrumentation, and a gentle groove arranged by Jerry Peters. Blending elements of classic r&b with jazz sophistication, the track has a timeless, cinematic feel. It's a standout in US drummer Connors' catalogue. Released in the same year, 'Captain Connors' is a loose and limber soul-jazz workout, with energetic horns and deinty keys riding over a sprawling arrangement. Well worth adding to the collection.

Review: Serious jazz dance fusion from 1974, Norman Connors' cover of Carlos Garnett's "Mother Of The Future" drives with shamanistic fury before the firing keys, heaving horns and deep soul vocals fly into the mix. For a more contemporary jazz take, flip for Bembe Segue's emphatic live version. Lavished with her distinctively rich vocals and stern spoken word and complete with wild bass runs and a thick bed of percussion, it's an instant show-stopper. Two incredible covers, one special 10".

Review: Expansion's focus right now is on reissuing classic tracks alongside a newer version of it. They are all coming on tidy 10" eco vinyl in mad limited numbers and next up is Norman Connors and Bembe Segue. Connors dropped his superb 'Mother of the Future' in 1975 and it is a mad jazz dancer with layer upon layer of Afro drumming, loose percussion and expressive vocal ad-libs. Flip it over and we're taken to 2008's live version of the same tune by Bembe Segue. It's a little less intense but no less busy, with silky jazz grooves and new vocals layering in some future soul.

Review: Cornell "CC" Carter's upcoming album is a heartfelt masterpiece, showcasing his deep connection to life, love, and the emotions we all experience daily. 'The Change,' the first single, set the stage for the highly anticipated track 'Everyday,' reflecting Carter's soulful essence. The album is a collaboration with top-tier musicians and producers, embodying a collective soul. Born in Berkeley and raised in San Francisco, Carter debuted with Vindicated Soul in 2017, followed by notable albums like One Love, Absolutely, and Next Life. His career highlights include recording with The Isley Brothers and sharing stages with legends like James Brown, Ray Charles, and Sly and the Family Stone. Known for his versatile vocal range, Carter's previous work, In The Moment and the acclaimed Vindicated Soul, solidified his international presence. With awards and accolades, including Soultracks' New Artist of the Year, Carter continues to captivate with his unique blend of soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics.

Review: Cornell CC Carter's new album, Expressions Of Soul, marks his return after three years since the acclaimed 'Next Life'. This CD, brings together a collection of soulful tracks that showcase Carter's remarkable talent. The album includes standout singles like 'So Nice,' 'Change,' and 'Everyday,' each demonstrating his flair for modern soul. New additions to the album include the funk-infused 'When I'm Around You' and the socially conscious 'Have We Moved,' offering a refreshing variety. For fans of romantic ballads, 'I Can't Find A Way' provide deep emotional resonance, while 'Are You Alone' echoes the best of Bobby Womack. Highlights include Carter's homage to Marvin Gaye with 'Come Get To This,' featuring smooth saxophone work, and the collaboration with Julian Jonah on 'Holding Back,' which channels the Temptations' sound. With twelve tracks, Expressions Of Soul is a rich, rewarding and strong release for fans of soul music.