(Universal Music)

Northern Soul is one of those genres of music which experiences peaks and troughs in popularity, and right now we appear to be in a definite upswing as a new generation comes to appreciate what they’ve been missing out on.

This follow-up to the 100,000 copies-selling first volume is once again curated by 19 year-old music student, and Northern Soul obsessive, Levanna McLean.

She says on the inlay notes: “My personal journey to discover what [Northern Soul] means has given me more than I bargained for. I found myself instantly attached and addicted to beautiful music, a lively dance scene and people who were some of the friendliest and coolest you could possibly meet.

“From there I learned about the records and have nothing but adoration for the DJs who have shaped the scene and worked so hard over the years to help us discover these tunes.

“Northern Soul has opened up a whole new world for me and an appreciation of great music tied to a lifestyle filled with joy and excitement…

“These songs, whether you know them or not, will get your feet moving whilst generally lifting your spirits like no other music does. They are songs that never seem to grow old and sound fresh every time…”

It is undoubtedly thanks to Levanna that this series is proving so successful, as she brings a fresh vibe to both old classics and hard-to-find gems alike.

Some of the stand-out tracks are Sam Ward’s ‘Sister Lee’, a highly sought-after Detroit single currently selling for hundreds of pounds on eBay.

Other hard to find tracks include Tommy Neal’s ‘Going To A Happening’, Stanley Mitchell’s ‘Get It Baby’ alongside whoppers including The Luther Ingram Orchestra’s 148bpm ‘Exus Trek’ which fans will recognise having been heavily featured in the 2014 film ‘Northern Soul’.

Other key tracks include Judy Street with ‘What’, Patti & The Emblems’ ‘I’m Gonna Love You A Long Time’ and Bobby Womack on ‘Home Is Where The Heart Is’.

A remarkable selection of songs which are perfect for Northern Soul aficionados and newbies alike.