Various Saint Etienne Presents Songs For The Carnegie Deli (CD)

(2016/Ace) 24 tracks 1962-1969 with 12 page booklet.
St. Etienne’s Bob Stanley returns to compile a second collection of themed songs for Ace. His previous compilation “Songs For The Dog & Duck” (CDCHD 1244) proved popular with St. Etienne fans, who appreciate Bob’s musical taste. All the songs featured here were produced in New York – hence the reference to the Carnegie Deli, 7th Avenue’s purveyor of extremely large sandwiches.
The tracks have the high production values of NYC studios and the pop and soul complement each other. Big names abound: Little Anthony, the Chiffons, Irma Thomas, Jay & The Americans and Lesley Gore. Classy obscurities come from the Tradewinds, Marva Josie, Tutti Hill and Junior Lewis. David Coleman, The Groove and Dee Dee Sharp provide retro dancefloor hits. There is one previously unissued girly soul number from Joan Moody. The sound quality is high and the CD is a sumptuous listen. Much-admired writer Bob Stanley provides an entertaining and illuminating sleevenote.