Having written hits for the likes of Ray Charles and Diana Ross the golden song-writing partnership of Ashford & Simpson once again excel themselves with this neatly repackaged release of their 1978 gem: Is It Still Good To Ya. It doesn’t take a genius to relive all that soulful goodness, or indeed the tantalising interplay between the two supremely gifted vocalists. Whether that’s care off the more tender ballads on offer or via the sheer uplifting emotion of the spirited (and exquisitely arranged 12” Disco Mix) ‘It Seems To Hand On’. The mid-tempo isn’t a bad place to be either with sassy rhythms celebrating life such as on the tempting, ‘Get Up And Do Something’ or the rather sublime ‘You Always Could’ the music always transcends genre’s and soars. And as if a bonus were indeed needed then please turn once again to Christian John Wikane’s perfectly crafted sleeve notes, which add informed movement to the story alongside some timely photographs happily extolling the era.
5 out of 5
Reviewed by Greg Fenton
