I can't remember the last time I actually dreamt of a b-side but it happend on Wednesday night when, on holiday in the Lake District, I sat bolt upright at about 4am physically aching because I didn't own Fergus and Geronimo's "Powerful Lovin'" on vinyl. Sounds a bit pathetic doesn't it? A grown man dreaming of a popsong and feeling almost bereaved that he doesn't possess it...it just ain't right! Fortunately, J and I had scheduled a wee excursion to Manchester for the following day so I resolved to find the famed Piccadily Records to see if they had a copy of "Blind Muslim Girl" (Tic Tac Totally). Unfortunately, despite having Fergus and Geronimo's previous (killer!) single "Harder Than It's Ever Been" (Woodsist), they didn't have the Tic Tac Totally release so my pain (melodramatic...me?...never!) went uneased. Until today, that is, when I was finally made well again. So what's so good about "Powerful Lovin'"? Hmmm, I'd say:
1. It has one of the most fabulous, idiot simple bubblegum keyboard lines you're ever likely hear
2. Its instantly memorable melody sounds like it was purloined from any one of a thousand gut wrenching Southern soul records
3. The stately guitar solo is genuinely moving
4. The vocals are immensely passionate and, thankfully, never sound like someone doing a Stars In Their Eyes imitation of Otis Redding
5. It shows genuine love for the sources from which it steals so never feels like a cheap, camp cash-in on other people's genius