Flashback - 1988

Paul Simpson ft Adeva - Musical Freedom (Free At Last) [Cooltempo]

"Musical Freedom" dates back to 1988 although its various releases straddled two years. Anyone who found themselves in a half decent club in those years will have found themselves dancing to one or other of the mixes. The vocals were of course provided by Adeva, whose own track "Respect" was also tearing up dancefloors every night of the week. I feel fortunate to have a copy on 12" that includes Danny D's extended remix on one side and an alternative version on the flipside which uses the same musical backdrop with the acapella from Candi Staton's "You've Got The Love". It's effectively two tracks for the price of one, both with that gorgeous and infectious piano laden groove. For me this is an all time favourite; a track that I almost need to invent new superlatives to describe. Even after 33 years I feel released by the music whenever I hear it. Sheer brilliance!

Flashback 1995

Frankie Knuckles ft Adeva - Whadda' U Want (From Me) [Virgin Records]

Heading back to the middle of the 90s and an incredible combination that finds the Godfather of House, Frankie Knuckles, teaming up with legendary vocalist Adeva to create a track that delivers on every possible level. Frankie's own mixes are excellent but for me it was and still is all about the K-Klass remix. Ten minutes long with an atmospheric arrangement and punctuated by bounding keys, it's simply epic. As for Adeva's vocals, they're utterly breathtaking.

Flashback 1991

Thirty years and counting for this gem. The immense vocals of Adeva and a stellar remix from Tony Humphries leave little need for any additional narrative from me (or anyone else for that matter).

Tune of the Week

I've been looking out for this one landing for a couple of weeks since Louie started teasing us with the artwork. There aren't many artists whose music I buy without first listening but with Adeva on vocals and an all star cast on the remixes this was never going to disappoint. My pick of the package is the Rhemi Remix of "In The Morning" but the various remixes of "I Deserve To Breathe" all hit the spot nicely too. Out on promo today and due for general release on the 17th February, this is one you won't want to miss.