The Definitive Soul Collection

AMG Review of The Definitive Soul Collection

Andy Kellman
All Music Guide

There have been piles of Curtis Mayfield anthologies throughout the years -- some great ones, some decent ones, and many bad ones. This entry in Rhino's Definitive Soul Collection series is one of the best two-disc Mayfield anthologies yet released. Sticking strictly to his solo years (some discs incorporate his years with the Impressions), these two discs contain every significant charting single through 1990's "Do Be Down," as well as essential moments like "(Don't Worry) If There's a Hell Below We're All Going to Go," "The Makings of You," "Pusherman," "Superfly," and "Future Shock." As the '70s wind down, the quality takes a considerable dip, but the drastically underplayed "Love Me, Love Me Now" is a major exception. While the set is terrifically representative for the average casual fan, there are many more discoveries to be made throughout Mayfield's catalog.