Soul Of The Matter [LP], Herbie & Royalists, Vinyl

Vinyl LP pressing. Originally released in 1968 on the budget Saga label, The Soul of The Matter has become a genuine cult favorite of the British late-sixties soul-pop underground. Long overlooked and pressed in modest quantities, the album quietly built a reputation among collectors as one of those rare low-budget releases where the artistry far outweighed the resources behind it. Fronted by the charismatic Herbie Hunte, whose warm and expressive vocals drive the record throughout, the Royalists blend blue-eyed soul, post-beat pop, light psychedelia and baroque flourishes into a sound both sincere and distinctive. From the infectious opener "Baby I Love You" to the ambitious "Royal Suite" and the atmospheric instrumental standout "Lost Voyage," the album showcases a band making inspired music with heart, energy and imagination. Despite it's humble origins, The Soul of The Matter stands today as a rediscovered gem-passed between collectors and crate-diggers for decades. Now lovingly reissued by Morgan Blue Town, this edition finally gives the album the attention and presentation it deserves. An essential addition for fans of British '60s soul, mod-era pop, and cult underground classics.