Robert Owens vinyl always brings a smile to my face, and this volume of Jack Trax is dedicated to the beautiful soul cries of the early Chicago house icon. For fans like me, this is a godsend due to the rarity of his records. Trust me - if you go looking for him at record stores or dollar bins, chances are you'll come home empty-handed. These records contain four of his best vocal performances, spanning from the late 80s to 2006, with each track taking up a whole side on 45, just how I like it. As you go down the tracklist, you'll see a dream team of producers. "A Walk In My Shoes(1)" was released in 2006 by Coldcut and remixed by Henrik Schwarz. It's a real emotional ride about judgmental society, with a perfectly epic backing by Henrik. "Bringing Down The Walls(2)" was produced in 1986 by Larry Heard when he and Owens formed the monumental Fingers Inc. and was one of the songs which set off Heard's career as a solo artist on 4th and Broadway. Classic Heard at his best (besides "I'm Strong," which isn't on here) with his signature warm jacking bass. "I Was Here Before(3)" rides more of a hype midnight house vibe and was produced in 1993 by Farley Jackmaster, Adonis and Farley Williams. Truly a rare combination of talent; originals fetch a minimum of $30 for just the single alone. The last track, "Your Heart Is My Home(4)," is grown love song from 1994 produced by Robert Owens himself for his label Musical Directions. It's actually "My Heart Is Your Home," but that's a minor detail. Honestly I would love to hear more of his productions with Larry Heard from the golden era of Chicago house, but with all singles on one comp, I'm just glad it's here.

reviewed by C'mish