Expansion Records

The 2017 release of "Top Of The Stairs" by Collins & Collins on Expansion Records (catalogue number EX7033) is a magnificent reissue of one of the most sophisticated "Modern Soul" 45s ever recorded. Much like the Brief Encounter and Coke Escovedo releases, this seven-inch single was produced to satisfy collectors who found the original 1980 pressings on A&M Records nearly impossible to find. The Release Details Format: 7" Vinyl, 45 RPM. Release Date: 10 August 2017. Side A: "Top Of The Stairs" (4:38). Side B: "You Know How To Make Me Feel So Good" (3:52). The Significance of the Record This release is particularly special because it features two tracks produced by the legendary Ashford & Simpson. The Production: The duo brought their signature "New York City" sophistication to these sessions, resulting in a sound that is both lush and incredibly tight. Market Rarity: Original A&M seven-inch copies of "Top Of The Stairs" were once so rare that they were the stuff of legend amongst Northern Soul and Crossover Soul DJs. This Expansion reissue made the track accessible to the wider public without compromising on the audio quality. About Collins & Collins Collins & Collins was a duo consisting of siblings Bill and Irene Collins. Their One and Only Album: They released a solitary, self-titled album on A&M in 1980. Despite the high production values and critical acclaim amongst soul purists, it did not achieve massive commercial success at the time. The Legacy: The album has since become a "holy grail" for collectors. It is often cited as a perfect example of the transition from late-70s soul into the polished "80s Boogie" sound. The Sound "Top Of The Stairs": This is a masterclass in mid-tempo soul. It features a bubbling bassline, soaring strings, and the perfectly intertwined vocals of Bill and Irene. It is often played at the climax of "Modern Soul" nights across the United Kingdom. "You Know How To Make Me Feel So Good": The B-side is a beautiful, soulful ballad that showcases the duo's vocal range and the delicate touch of Ashford & Simpson's songwriting. Technical Note: The A-side on this Expansion release is the full album version, which runs for 4 minutes and 38 seconds, allowing for the full instrumental build-up that makes the track so evocative.