.co.uk With two of the most popular styles of compilation being chill-out and originals that have been sampled by latter-day artists, why not make and album that encompasses both? Like its predecessor, Mellow Mellow Vol.2 features many legends of 70s funk pensively displaying their virtuosity rather than competing for the fattest groove on the dance floor. JBs mainstay Fred Wesley makes a couple of appearances with his trombone, firstly with the Horny Horns on a Clinton-written, downtempo groove "Four Play" and then with James Brown and company on "King Heroin", an instrumental with a feel of early 60s soul and the tense cinematic atmosphere of Isaac Hayes' screen work. One of the most moving pieces here is Rotary Connection's slowed-down, ominously dark version of "Respect", backed by a dissonant, almost euphoric string arrangement. Mellow Mellow Vol.2 is not quite so mainstream as Vol.1, but that's all the more welcome as the quality is still top-notch without being overplayed. If there had to be a flaw it would be the non-inclusion of Maceo Parker who, like many of the artists featured here, epitomised mellow 70s groove. --Georgina Collins
M**N
Smoother than smooth grooves
I had actually seen this cd on many occasions thinking it was just another modern r and b comp,but on seeing the track listing i immedietly purchased this cd. I actually brought it just for the very rare Lonnie Liston Smith track,as i collect his stuff,after playing the cd i realised i had discovered a treasure trove of soul/raregroove classics. This comp is a must for Ayers and Lonnie Liston Smith fans like me,but other tracks like Kool and the gangs "Winter Sadness" and Johnny guitar Watsons "Superman lover" show a mellow groove side of the respective groups. Theres bands i have not heard of like Fred wesley and the horny horns or Rotary connection that also deliver the goods.For me James Browns "King Heroin" is the real gem of the album,its a fine but basic instrumental like no other Brown song. All i can say is if your in to any form of soul or r and b, buy this, you wont be dissapointed,you will even be surprised to hear some samples used by more recent bands.
G**R
Good
Some good stuff on hear,although i preferred vol 1
F**A
Four Stars
Great compilation
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