The Sound of Soul (Themes)

When Alan Parker recorded the soul-funk library LP The Voice of Soul with session vocalist Madeline Bell in 1976, Themes also released the backing tracks separately as The Sound of Soul.

Originally described as “unobtrusive musical backings in various rhythmic styles”, the LP was issued without melody for use behind commentary. Female vocal versions appear on The Voice of Soul, and it was possible to edit between vocal and instrumental versions where commentary or scene changes occurred.

Backed by The Rhythm Section, Themes International Music’s house band, Bell was joined by Alan Hawkshaw, Alan Parker, Barry Morgan, Les Hurdle and Frank Ricotti. Without Bell’s vocals, these instrumental workouts have room to breathe. This reissue was remastered from the original analogue tapes by Simon Francis, with sleeve reproduction by Richard Robinson.