Back in 2014, Natalie Williams’ Soul Family posted a jazz/soul cover to YouTube that would anchor their names in YouTube history – amassing over 7.9 million views to date and 75,000 likes on the site.
For their viral clip, the Soul Family take on Diana Ross’s US #1 hit, “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” – a song first recorded by Marvin Gaye in 1967, reprised in duet by the Supremes and Temptations in 1968, before being re-recorded again for Diana’s debut eponymous solo album two years later. This A-List lineup of recording artists might set some exceptionally big boots to fill, but with 10 jazz musicians comprising the Soul Family band, the London band’s cover surmounts all expectations.
Lead vocalists Vula Malinga and Brendan Reilly radiate an old-school, classy atmosphere, singing their flawless first verse back-to-back, splitting lyrics and traversing scales beneath each other’s top lines. Their chemistry is instantly warming, their voices a perfect match as they balance each other’s tones, singing in addictive call-and-response while grooving straight through the track.
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Vula, channelling her own inner gospel queen, completely steals the show, however: just listen to those bold tones matched with her vivid, bright-smiling energy.
Cast in black and white, this video instantly conjures the impression of a televised 1960s music performance (one which might have turned the world on its head); each member of the supersized band performing tightly together, each musician adding exponentially to the blossoming good vibes pinning down this hit. The backing vocalists carry the song’s heart and soul, layering their plush, luxurious voices as Vula hits some startling high notes.
Featuring alongside Vula and Brendan are vocalists Sharlene Hector and Soul Family band founder Natalie Williams; keyboardist Phil Peskett, bassist Robin Mullarkey, guitarist Ben Jones, drummer Martyn Maine, and percussionists Karlos Edwards and Ladonna Harley-Peters. Saxophonist Mark Brown, trumpeter Ben Edwards, and trombonist Mike Kearsey, of the band Atlantic Horns, comprise the brass section of this Soul Family performance.
While the Soul Family might first appear like an all-American jazz band, Music Man readers in the UK only have to flock down to Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club in Soho, London to catch the band live. According to the Ronnie Scott’s website, “the Soul Family have held a monthly residence at the club for the past 16 years,” with surprise, featured guests making Soul Family Sundays “one of the most important platforms for showcasing emerging and established talent from around the world.” Some of the band’s past guests have included Amy Winehouse, Emeli Sande and ESKA, to name a mere few!
Natalie Williams’ Soul Family brilliantly bridges the past and present with their captivating cover of “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.” Their impeccable musicianship and vocal interplay bring a fresh yet classic touch to this timeless hit. If you’re eager to explore more from this London sensation, dive into the links provided below for a deeper appreciation of their artistry and infectious energy.