An array of obscure soul from the United States, hence the title
Across the Board, but "Across the Ocean" would be more appropriate. Features one smash, "It's Too Late to Turn Back Now," by
Cornelius Brothers & Sister Rose, and 20 surprises by a host of artists including the late
Tony Hestor, who wrote "In the Rain" and other songs for the
Dramatics.
Belita Wood's rendition of
Vernon Harrells' "That's When I'll Stop Loving You," is as heart stopping as
Linda Jones' better-known version.
Woods went on to sing with the
S.O.S. Band and
George Clinton. Harmony lovers will be down with Channel 3's "The Sweetest Things," and "Love Stormy Weather" by
Melvin Brown & James Matthews is surprising because one of them sounds so much like
Teddy Pendergrass. A rare
Walter Jackson track entitled "Let Me Come Back," will delight his longtime fans and newbies, as well.
Gene Redding never had a major hit, but he recorded some tough sides, his "I Need Your Lovin'" shows what this underrated soul singer was all about. And there's enough Southern soul by the likes of
Otis Clay,
Bill Brandon,
Carl Stewart, and others to satisfy diehards of the style.