Although this is not a typical southern soul CD - there are no recordings from Memphis or Muscle Shoals, for example - the music here has the feel of being cut below the Mason-Dixon line. Whether the tempo is high, or we're in deep soul territory, there are the same "open", uncluttered production values. The emphasis here is on creating a setting for strong singers with gospel-based vocal styles to shine, and the tracks cover all the various soul styles that were fashionable in the Golden Age, from the slowest of ballads to out-and-out funk. This 24 track collection features Betty Bibbs, Tommy Youngblood, Johnny Copeland, Vernon Garrett, Arthur & Mary, Jeb Stuart, Sims Twins, ZZ Hill, Freeman King, Brenda George, Jimmy Robins and others.