Back To Love Vol 2

The Back to Love series released by the Hed Kandi label looks back to the U.K. dance scene's "Summer of Love" era. The Back to Love title references a popular London club night from the era that sought to embody the essence of 1989. The majority of the songs come from 1988-1989, though there is also a noticeable variety of songs from earlier and later years. Even if the songs weren't released during the late '80s, however, they certainly sound like it. This second volume in the series is one of the more impressive volumes, featuring a number of house anthems from the era (Lil Louis' "French Kiss," Rhythim Is Rhythim's "Strings of Life"), pop-dance hits (Soul II Soul's "Back to Life," Deee-Lite's "Groove Is in the Heart"), disco classics (First Choice's "Let No Man Put Asunder," Archie Bell & the Drells' "Don't Let Love Get You Down"), and unexpected inclusions (De La Soul's "Say No Go," Maceo & the Macks' "Cross the Tracks"). Each of the volumes features two discs that sadly aren't mixed DJ style. A great collection of music for anyone who cherishes the style of dance music that made the U.K.'s Summer of Love such a special time. ~ Jason Birchmeier|