New releases last eight weeks: 50s/60s

Review: The Dells were a legendary soul and doo-wop group defined by Johnny Carter's soaring falsetto and Marvin Junior's rich baritone. After first forming in 1952, their most iconic era came during their time with Chicago's Cadet label from the mid-60s to mid-70s. Their 1966 track 'Run For Cover' became a staple of the Northern Soul scene and remains highly sought-after today, with mint copies fetching over L100. Equally beloved is their 1968 dancer 'Wear It On Our Face' featuring a powerful Charles Stepney arrangement and the group's signature harmonies-both songs showcasing The Dells at the height of their soulful brilliance.

Review: A curious artefact of Northern Soul history, this limited one-sided 7" by Eddie Regan was pressed by Anchor UK with two conflicting release dates, though 1978 is believed to be correct. Dropped during the peak of the Northern Soul explosion in the UK, 'Playing Hide & Seek' delivers a potent dose of heartfelt vocals and dancefloor-ready soul. Its raw, urgent energy and emotive delivery have made it a cult favourite, with two Northern Soul classics featured back-to-back on some issues. Do not sleep, because this will fly.

Review: This is a Jimmy Ruffin cover of The Temptations' 'He Who Picks a Rose ' written by Earl Smiley, Eddie Holland and Norman Whitfield. It's a rare 7" single from a soul legend whose unmistakable voice defines a deep, emotive cut drenched in heartache and rich Motown-style production. 'He Who Picks a Rose' delivers classic themes of love and vulnerability with dramatic string arrangements and Ruffin's aching vocal performance front and centre. Originally recorded during his golden Motown years but released here by S Sound, this reissue shows the raw emotional power Ruffin brought to every performance.

Review: Buddy Holly defied rock star stereotypes with his Ivy League style and horn-rimmed glasses, yet his impact on music rivals legends like Elvis and Little Richard. This 20-track collection celebrates the legacy of Holly and The Crickets and takes in many of their most iconic hits like 'That'll Be the Day' and other gems released under his various different monikers. Despite his tragic death in 1959, Holly's brief yet brilliant career left an indelible mark on rock 'n' roll after he emerged by mixing up Texas country roots with r&b influences with great guided by producer Norman Petty. Holly's sound was both fresh and timeless, and this album proves what a pioneer he was.

Review: In 1960, composer Leonard Bernstein called Elvis Presley "the greatest cultural force of the 20th century," praising how he revolutionised the music, language and fashion of the day. And it is fair to say Elvis's influence paved the way for the '60s social revolution. This exceptional triple album contains 54 tracks, mostly alternate versions, with all of them offering a unique compilation of Elvis's diverse talents. It celebrates his versatility as an artist while honouring the brilliant songwriters who helped make his work legendary, flamboyant and so timeless.

Review: After 20 years of soulful and authentic rock & roll blues, Eli Paperboy Reed definitely had a right to celebrate. Originally recorded in a basement in Allston, Massachusetts, completely live onto and direct to analogue tape in mono, this collection was first released on a limited run of 300 CDs, self-released, and mostly sold by hand on the streets of Cambridge, close to Harvard University. Now redone, pressed-up and polished for 'proper release', you get all 12 original tracks and another 14 that never saw the light of day before. Four of those were recorded at the time of the others, the remainder come from a radio session the following year. All of them are incredible, and prove that it's not only the Deep South that can make these raw and unflinchingly honest sounds.

Review: Frank Sinatra's legacy shines as bright as ever these days, and with this special edition of The Platinum Collection, a timeless 3-disc set celebrating the golden voice of 'Ol' Blue Eyes', that is unlikely to change any time soon. Though he passed in 1998, this compilation cements his near six-decade career with unforgettable classics that defined a generation and beyond. Featuring signature tracks like 'Come Fly With Me,' 'I've Got You Under My Skin,' 'Nice 'N' Easy' and 'The Lady Is A Tramp' this collection showcases Sinatra's effortless charm and velvet phrasing as well as his most singular talent - that iconic swing. It's a perfect entry point for new listeners or well well-curated addition for lifelong fans.