Robert Jay Alcohol

• Words: Derek Grey
• Label: Voxpop
• XLR8R Rating: /10

The funk vaults are reopened by Manchester imprint and store Vox Pop. Think, funky breaks, think hard-luck crooners, think Northern Soul. Leave it to Detroit native Robert Jay's 1969 single "Alcohol" to make us remember why the music of his era was so special. Pressed on pristine 7" 45 vinyl, Jay's voice sounds like a world-weary Ray Charles, and did I mention he can blow a sax?