Miss out on some of the earlier Shoes releases when they were on vinyl? Well you've been given a second chance 'cause they've gone ahead and pressed up ALL those sought-after joints from the archive on this Early Years double pack! The first volume features the monster edit of Al Green's "Love & Happiness" as well as "Dub & Happiness" from SHOES003, a bumped up edit of the Timmy Thomas' classic "Why Can't We Live Together" that adds a subtle 4/4 beat to the vocal groove (from SHOES004), and the afro-funk vibes of "Kyen Kyen" from SHOES005. Volume 2 kicks off with "Afro-Perculator," an unexpected (but highly effective) blend of Cajmere's "Perculator" and some extra funky afro-percussion grooves (originally off SHOES005). Next up is "Afta Lafta" a re-flip of the famous Wu sample source, while "Why Can't We Dub" takes a halftime skank to the Timmy Thomas classic. Finally, "Nautilus" is gives a subtle re-edit treatment to Bob James' jazz funk anthem. Recommended.

• includes both volumes of Early Years on double 12"
• music label: Shoes 2011

reviewed by snackmaster 08/2015