The 70s soul and funk scene bred big-time and small-time acts who either flooded the airwaves or never made it out of the recording booth. Much of the glory of the latter has been lost in time and space — never to be seen (or heard) again. But thanks to sleuthing record collectors and music nerds, the obscure and expired have been preserved, and now Daptones Records and Truth & Soul Records have made sure that revival soul and funk sounds can reach record shelves — and iTunes — once again.

Lee Fields debuted in the 70s with his signature “croonier than James Brown” style. He had a few forgettable hits, and disappeared before he could achieve lasting relevance. Thirty years later, he’s back, still singing love ballads that make you want to slow dance or, you know, make love.

His forthcoming album on New York’s soul/funk label, Truth & Soul Records, is slated for a June 2nd release. To celebrate, music heavyweights Aloe Blacc, Ghetto Brothers, Egon of Stones Throw and others will be at Southpaw June 5th with good music, dancing and some cold sweat.

Also, you can click here to listen to one of Field’s singles, called “Ladies.”

Album photo: Truth and Soul Records. Flier designed by The Bear Cave.

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