Various Artists - Totally Wired - a New Collection From Acid Jazz (Various Artists)

This compilation sees the return of Acid Jazz's iconic 'Totally Wired' series, which became a huge success in the early '90s, following the international breakthrough of the likes of The Brand New Heavies, Jamiroquai and the James Taylor Quartet. Originating in 1988, initially compiled by Eddie Piller and Gilles Peterson as a 'best of...', it became an independent music phenomenon, selling in the tens of thousands, with major label artists even vying for inclusion, with a significant influence in shaping the sound of the time, as Acid Jazz went global. The return of 'Totally Wired...' is a milestone, which continues to showcase the depth and development of Acid Jazz, combining new and exclusive releases with previously unheard gems. These include an exclusive unreleased track from Matt Berry, a new track from scene veteran Chris Bangs, and a white-label cut from Soul Revivers' forthcoming album. Recent releases from the wider scene from BDQ, The Romero Brothers and the remarkable UK soul singer Carmy Love. Meanwhile, new signings Earth-o-Naut and Quiet Fire appear alongside label legends The Brand New Heavies, who offer an outstanding funk take on Aretha Franklin's "Rock Steady", and the Acid Jazz Orchestra's one-off release, taking on Corduroy's "Something In My Eye" - the first-time vinyl release of these titles.