The Number 1 Soul Collection

Of Number 1 Soul Collection's 16 tracks, only three are the original recording. The rest are re-recorded versions, which leads to some shoddy performances, but fortunately does not entirely ruin the album. Unlike so many compilations that opt for latter-day versions of hit songs, Number 1 Soul Collection includes tracks that, while definitely not the original, at least replicate the feel and groove of them. Aaron Neville's "Tell It Like It Is", Sam & Dave's "Hold On! I'm Comin'", "Knock on Wood" from Eddie Floyd are all standouts. Number 1 Soul Collection isn't an essential set by any means, and most of these songs are readily available in their original format. But it isn't bad for a budget collection, and will satisfy the casual fan who might not mind if a few of the tracks don't match the originals' intensity.