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Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings – Soul of a Woman

Dan Webb

Sungenre Album of the Month – December 2017

It’s been a tough 12 months for fans of Daptone Records. Dynamic singer Sharon Jones sadly passed away last November after a hard-fought battle with cancer. Then came the news of the sudden passing of the label’s other marquee talent, Charles Bradley. Together, these artists paved the way and lead the charge for vintage soul’s revival in the modern era. The breadth of their combined talent and influence cannot be underestimated.

In October 2017, Daptone surprised us all with the announcement of the impending release of Soul of a Woman, along with the release of upbeat first single “Matter of Time”. It was the first taste of this powerful, emotive, posthumous masterpiece.

Listening to the album through quality speakers for the first time is simultaneously a heart-wrenching reminder of the tragic loss of this prodigious talent and kind soul, as well as a joyous celebration of all that she was. Jones gave us everything she had, right up til her last breath.

Soul of a Woman is the album we never expected. Deciding where to rank it among her already stellar back-catalogue is a mighty task. But upon repeat listens, it’s clear that this will be remembered as one of, if not her absolute finest.