Some critics have said Seal's Soul is a pointless album, that he brings nothing new to this collection of classic tracks. But it is equally easy to argue that, unless modern artists cover great songs such as the 12 found here, the now-timeless songs will eventually be lost in the ether.
The British star's smoky, gravelly voice could have been custom-designed to sing the songs of Curtis Mayfield, Otis Redding and Al Green, while producer extraordinaire David Foster lays down classy piano, string and brass arrangements. This could have been recorded at the height of Motown.
While it's near-impossible to improve upon the first versions of these masterpieces, Seal manages to put his own spin on them without detracting from what writers intended.
Highlights include Knock On Wood, by Eddie Floyd, an infectious and upbeat favourite, and I'm Still In Love With You, in which Seal channels the great Green. The over-produced Stand By Me is a letdown. Ben E. King's 1961 classic is a simple, powerful track, but Seal gets carried away, singing too many notes instead of letting the melody shine through. Aside from this slip-up, this is a great introduction to some of the best music ever recorded.