Reviewed by Tony Cummings

If down the decades you have journeyed to Wigan, Blackpool, Cleethorpes or any of the other epicentres of the Northern Soul scene you'll probably be convinced that Mary Love was, until her death in 2013, one of the great soul singers of the '60s. This beautifully packaged compilation brings together all those punchy, uptown calls to dance that she and her producers recorded for labels like Modern, Elco and Josie. Of course, what should have brought Mary major hits and put her up there with the top Motown stars didn't happen and it was the UK dancers who embraced this most appealing of soul singers. In the '70s Mary made an unexpected comeback as Mary Love Comer and recorded some funky modern gospel including the classic "Come Out Of The Sandbox". This 25-song collection is thoroughly recommended, both to Northern Soul devotees and those who wish to remember the musical gift of a singer who never gained the showbiz glittering prizes but recorded many tracks which are truly timeless.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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