Welcome to 2021, originally I was gonna write about another underrated UK early 90s post rock band, but I tossed it in favor of writing about something I've been currently obsessed with that seems unheard or rated. Soul Connection were beloved UK street soul pioneers, only releasing 2 albums, and "Street Soul" is a comp of their "best" tracks. The duo's mix of soul, hiphop, breakbeat and house is truly unmatched and infectious. All of this stuff was recorded in a bedroom, truly raw, punk and singular. These 6 songs bang front to back, signaling things to come in the 90s with dance music effecting top 40 production and aesthetics. "In And Out Of Love" is a hit song that never was with its perfect hook, bouncey beat and laid back atmospheres, that feels like someone running around a city center trying to shake off the feeeeeels. Its has this ambiance that is so warm and welcoming, the beats are off kilter but groove, and the vocals emote yearning that feels universal. The whole thing just feels so ahead of its time, with the layering of rhythms, samples and synths. You can hear its echos from Dee-Lite to No Joy. Its perfect and maybe could be the first thing you discover in 2021.
https://invisible-city-editions.bandcamp.com/album/street-soul
