Included on Disc One are four songs from a previously unreleased Home Of The Blues test tape from May 1961 – a real bonus to hear – all imbued with gospel fervour, the vital ingredient of solid soul. There are 20 additional previously unissued tracks & 17 related recordings by artists linked with the 5 Royales. These History of Soul releases are not your quickie PD issues as they have extensive notes by soul expert John Ridley, detailed discographies and loads of label shots and great photos. If you have the slightest interest in R&B, soul and the transition between the two, then you need some 5 Royales in your life. There are thirty-seven tracks on these three History of Soul ‘ Definitive 5 Royales’ 2CD sets that are not on the Rock Beat box set.
Fred Rothwell Blues & Rhythm
Although I own all their LP’s I hadn’t listened to the 5 Royales for quite some time. When I got your set I immediately put them on my CD player( the King sides first). I must confess you did an excellent job. The set is fantastic. The sound comes over clearly and the bass has profound depth almost more than on the original KING LP’s. I never listened to them with more pleasure ever. Really fantastic.
Atilla Oess
SOUL025
