I'm the first to admit that I'm a sucker for a well-crafted compilation that combines a retrospective and anthem theme. Bar Anthems successfully does that.

The three discs are themed perfectly – disc 1 is Soul Anthems containing tracks like Kings of Tomorrow's Finally and Jon Cutler's It's Yours. Disc 2, Disco Anthems, has tracks like Moloko's Sing It Back, Masters at Work's To Be in Love and Angie Stone’s I Wish I Didn't Miss You Anymore. Disc 3, Future Anthems, features Funkerman's Speed Up and Groove Armada's Love Sweet Sound. Unashamedly fun, it’s aimed at making you feel good – and it truly succeeds.

by LAWRENCE AKERS

Various
Bargrooves Bar Anthems
(Bargrooves)