Aretha Franklin, Knew You Were Waiting: The Best of 1980-1998 (Arista/Legacy)
The Queen of Soul’s comeback years, in a new anthology. Check back soon for a review from Joe as well as a Greater Hits from me stacking this set up to other compilations from this part of Aretha’s discography.
Various Artists, Golden Gate Groove: The Sound of Philadelphia Live in San Francisco 1973 (Philadelphia International/Legacy)
A sublime showcase of some of the best Philly soul in concert.
Various Artists, Giant Single: The Profile Records Rap Anthology (Arista/Legacy)
One of the most underrated hip-hop labels out there – home to Run-D.M.C. and DJ Rob Base and E-Z Rock – anthologized over two great discs.
The Tymes, So Much in Love (Real Gone)
The first-ever CD release for a ’60s classic, with four bonus tracks, no less!
Bonnie Pointer, Bonnie Pointer: Expanded Edition / Isaac Hayes, Don’t Let Go: Expanded Edition (Big Break)
The U.K. soul label’s latest expanded reissues.
Metallica, Beyond Magnetic (Warner Bros.)
A physical release for this EP of outtakes from Metallica’s last album, Death Magnetic.
Various Playlist releases (Legacy)
You know the drill on this one.
Ready or Not: Ace Sets Release for Thom Bell Anthology featuring Mathis, Warwick, Spinners, Stylistics, More
Wake Up Everybody: Vocalion Releases Quad SACDs from Harold Melvin and The Blue Notes, O’Jays, Earth Wind and Fire, Helen Reddy
Release Round-Up: Week of April 19
Release Round-Up: Week of November 2
Stop with the “Best of Arista” anthologies of Aretha. Just put out her complete Arista material, with bonus tracks, alternate takes, mixes and all. Do it on either single/double discs or as a boxset. Just do it.
Don’t forget Leonard Cohen’s Old Ideas comes out today.