Three albums recorded on his brother’s farm in Accokeek, Maryland, in the early 70s. Quite different to his previous releases, the music remains raw and basic, but with vocals and acoustic guitars, mandolins, dobros and piano. ‘An organic blend of downhome music… imbued with a primitive spirituality. There is an unpolished, spontaneous feel to the music which sparks it greedily into life, and the Accokeek earth seems to be ground deep into every groove. You can even hear the frogs croaking outside the shack.’

45s and rarities — classics like Ace Of Spades — recorded for the Swan label of Philadelphia, 1963-67, at his brother Ray Vernon’s rough and ready studio in Washington DC. With younger brother, Doug, on the drums and Shorty Horton on bass, and Ray on second guitar.

Classic New Orleans rhythm and blues, same cloth as Lee Dorsey and Ernie K Doe, before funk got a hold.

Johnnie ‘Who’s Making Love’ Taylor, Jimmie Outler, Paul Foster, S.R. Crain and James ‘Love Is a Five-Letter Word’ Phelps; the albums Jesus Be A Fence Around Me and Encore!!, plus seven tracks recovered from singles and a label compilation, and four previously unissued — all recorded between September 1959 and July 1964. With an excellent essay, which traces the Stirrers’ story to their formation in 1926.
Stealin in the name of the Lord… this is a terrific bargain.

Bobby Womack, with brothers Curtis, Harry, Friendly Jr and Cecil; produced by Sam Cooke between June 1961 and September 1964, for his own SAR label. Gospel as the Womack Brothers; R&B as the Valentinos, including the original version of It’s All Over Now. With seven previously unreleased tracks, and excellent notes, drawing on interviews with several members of the group.

‘Three fabulous gems from the Cameo-Parkway catalogue ensure another winner: The Orlons’ I Ain’t Coming Back, I Love Him So by Nikki Blu, and Comin’ Home Baby by Dee Dee Sharp.’ Loads more lovely stuff.

Great-fun, expertly-assembled, well-presented collection of ye-ye girl pop, featuring Francoise Hardy (of course) alongside BB, Anna Karina (from the Godard films) and co.