There aren’t many singers like Aaron Neville, whose vocal control and extended phrasing could give Sam Cooke a run for his money, and that smooth, sweet voice mellowed and smoothed out like the very best fine whiskey as his career, both with and without the Neville Brothers, went on. His most exciting work, though, at least as a solo artist, was arguably his early sides for the Minit and Sansu labels between 1960 and 1977. This two-disc set collects his singles from this period, many of which were produced by the great Allen Toussaint, and adds in bonus tracks and alternate takes, to make a fine introduction to the vital early years of this amazing singer’s impressive legacy. ~ Steve Leggett

Rovi