Walk into any petrol/gas station or bookstore these days and you will find a dozen soul, funk and disco compilations that aren't worth your time. On the other hand, German DJs Rainer Trüby, Theo Thoennessen and Roland Appel have produced this little compilatory gem called (nods to Herbie Hancock) "Maiden Voyage" from their Maiden Voyage nights in Münich, which they have been running since 1993. The emphasis is on quality, slow and sexy grooves by some of the genre's real legends, like Roy Ayers and Diana Ross, mixed with some more obscure material.

1. Nohelani Cypriano "Lihue"
2. Roy Ayers "(Sometimes) Believe In Yourself"
3. Toto "Georgy Porgy (disco version)"
4. Raw Soul Express "The Way We Live"
5. High Energy "Lovin' Fever"
6. Norman Connors "She's Gone"
7. Xavier "Love Is On The One"
8. Diana Ross "Tenderness"
9. Cameo "Love You Anyway"
10. Hubert Laws "Land of Passion"
11. Debra Laws "Very Special"
12. James Mason "I Want Your Love"
13. Alicia Myers "I Want To Thank You"

Hawaiian singer Nohelani Cypriano opens the compilation with "Lihue", which is taken from her 1980 debut record "Around Again". The soul jazz vibe continues with legendary vibraphone player Roy Ayers and "(Sometimes) Believe In Yourself", which was originally a hit back in 1980. "Georgy Porgy" which features Cheryl Lynn was a hit for Toto back in 1978 and always goes down smooth. "The Way We Live" by the Raw Soul Express dates back to 1978 and is a bona fide rare groove classic. It is an all time funk masterpiece and everyone should have this in their collection.

The blend of smooth jazz and old school funk continues with "Lovin Fever" by High Energy. Anyone looking for a nice funky intro to sample should check out "I Want Your Love" by James Mason. Get those samplers on standby folks! It's party time.

As a selection of the best of what funk and soul had to offer in the late 1970s and early 80s, this compilation is hard to beat. If only the people who make the disco compilations in my local bookstore would take note!

~ Jamie Hailstone

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Re-release date shown is estimated. Original release date: May 28, 2007

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