Description
Celestial Echo Records returns with a brilliant piece of British soul history, Spookey – “Friends”, originally released in 1981 and featuring none other than Marvin Gaye on synthesiser and mixing duties. Recorded during Marvin's time in Europe, “Friends” is one of the lesser-known recordings to feature the soul legend, coming just a year before his enormous comeback with Sexual Healing in 1982. It's a fascinating chapter in his career, finding him involved in a British funk production far removed from his celebrated Motown recordings. And what a record it is. “Friends” is a superb slice of early 80s Brit-funk and boogie, packed with infectious vocals, funky basslines, bright synthesiser work and a brilliant feel-good chorus. There's a definite American soul and disco influence running through it, but with that distinctly British sound that made the early 80s such an exciting period for UK dance music. Marvin's involvement is a wonderful part of the story, but “Friends” is a killer record in its own right. An essential piece of British soul and boogie, finally back in circulation courtesy of Celestial Echo Records.
