Saturday, BBC2, 11:45pm
The British film Northern Soul (2014), directed by Elaine Constantine, is a love letter to a subculture often overlooked in mainstream discussions. Set in 1974, it follows the story of two friends, John and Matt, who bond over their shared obsession with American soul music. This isn’t just any soul, mind you – it’s the rare, obscure vinyl gems that found their spiritual home in the sweaty dance halls of Northern England. If you ever wondered what it was like to dance like nobody was watching while also ensuring your flares stayed perfectly crisp, this film is for you. It’s a gritty, heartfelt journey through youthful rebellion, dreams, and the power of music to unite.
The soundtrack, naturally, is the heart and soul of this film – pun fully intended. Curated by British DJ Keb Darge, it features a treasure trove of Northern Soul classics from the likes of Edwin Starr, Frankie Valli, and Don Varner. These tracks were unearthed from small American labels and would have been lost to time if not for a handful of obsessives who made it their life’s work to track down rare vinyl. It's like a musical archaeological dig, but with fewer hats and more rhythm. Each track is a pulsating, adrenaline-fuelled anthem, perfect for the rapid, athletic dance moves that defined the scene. If your foot isn’t tapping along to Varner’s Tear Stained Face, then I suggest checking if your pulse is still intact.
For soundtrack collectors, the Northern Soul album is a bit of a holy grail. Released on both vinyl and digital formats, it captures the essence of a music scene that was all about the search for the perfect beat. And it’s not just nostalgia for those who lived through it – the film’s release sparked a revival of interest in Northern Soul, with younger generations discovering the infectious energy of the music. It's a testament to the timeless appeal of soul and its ability to keep you on your feet, whether in a dingy Lancashire club in the '70s or your living room in 2024.