Tuesday, 27 January 2009

Rick Clarke & Emma - I Really Want To Be With You (Summer Soul Mix) 1987 – RCA

Rick Clarke is one of Britain's top UK soul acts – this was my first introduction to the man and this duet with the delicious Emma was one of the highlights of the Summer of 1987. This 12” single is now sought after and rightly so. At time of release I could not stop playing it, and there weren't many UK artists who enjoyed that privilege in my house! Not so today of course! In fact I give this a regular spin and the summery groove bolstered by a sturdy and appetite-filling bass line on a regular basis. Recorded at PWL studios no less, this single deserves to see the light of day again on radio or even a compilation.

Whatever became of Emma I have no idea but she possesses one hell of a voice and is as soulful as the best of them. The version I have chosen especially for review is the Summer Soul Mix, and it does exactly what it says on the label. Oozing class, warmth and enduring appeal. For me this is also Rick's finest hour and I would love to see Rick surface again soon with a new song or two. I would give the sound sample a listen and head over to the Net to see if a copy can be snapped up – it's the 12” you really need and that mix in particular. Classy UK Soul from 1987.

Barry Towler
The Vibe Scribe