Back catalogue: Disco/Nu-Disco

Review: Some 21 years after volume one appeared in stores, PTG's ongoing Masterpiece: The Ultimate Disco Funk Collection series has reached its 36th instalment. Given the series' longevity and the sheer number of tracks already showcased across volumes one to 35, the cuts on display here are genuine rarities, cult classics and sought-after gems. As usual, highlights are plentiful, from the soulful vocals, dreamy chords and rubbery slap-bass of In Touch's 'Why Did You Stop Loving Me' and the boogie-era sunshine shuffle of 'I'm Yours' by Hollywood Tucker, to the big studio swell of Spence's mid-80s jam 'Gonna Party', the 80s soul smoothness of Jimmy Scott's 'Games' and the synth bass-propelled post-boogie brilliance of 'Divided Love' by Haywoode.

Review: This two-disc collection is a brilliant collection of soulful delights, capturing the vibrant spirit of a golden era in music. Featuring a seamless blend of smooth grooves and electrifying dance tracks, it's a joyous celebration of 80s soul, funk and r&b. From silky ballads to funky floorfillers, the compilation offers something for every mood and taste. The energy kicks off with electrifying beats and infectious basslines from artists like Uncle Louie and Carl Carlton, whose dynamic performances set the tone for the journey ahead. Soulful standouts like Lamont Dozier and Valerie Horton-Brown bring heartfelt emotion, while The Chi-Lites and The Jones Girls channel timeless sophistication into their tracks. Hidden gems such as Funk Fusion Band's captivating groove and Spencer Jones' dub mix showcase the innovation and versatility that defined the decade. The seamless interplay of upbeat anthems like Aurra's joyful energy and introspective offerings from Today, Tomorrow, Forever creates a rich, varied listening experience. With its expertly curated tracklist, this compilation is a delightful rediscovery of an era when bold rhythms and heartfelt melodies ruled the airwaves, leaving an enduring legacy.

Review: You'd think by the time any compilation series reached its 35th instalment, it would be scraping the barrel in terms of killer cuts to showcase. That's certainly not the case with the latest volume in the Masterpiece: The Ultimate Disco Funk Collection series, which has rustled up some genuinely brilliant - and largely little known - cuts to share. For proof, check the glossy, boogie-era disco-funk of Tammi Holt's 'Funk For You', the bubbly and polished 80s soul dancefloor flex of Jo Ann Jones' 'Share My Love (Club Mix)', Mark Mitchell's synth solo-laden 'Pretty Baby', Mel Strong's boogie-licious 'Uptown Lady', and the sing-along goodness of Sherrie Payne and Philip Ingram's 'Incredible (Dance Mix)'.