My love of Chicago's Numero Group Label was fairly solidified before they went & found the secret Wichita, KS soul scene of the mid to late 60's. I live in Kansas and had never heard about the soul scene in Wichita until this release came out. It's a wonderful collection based around the Smart Brothers and the Neal Brothers and the Smart's Palace club and restaurant they ran and played in. There are some crazy good soul sides on this release, especially by Baby Neal & The Smart Brothers. The compilation also includes other related acts like Fred Williams & The Jewel Band & Theron & Darrell. The liner notes recount the Smart Brothers tearing up the club night after night, playing the sax behind their back, jumping from table to table and just plain belting out a lungful of soul.
Here's my 3 favorite cuts from Eccentric Soul: Smart's Palace. They'll put you on the floor.
Baby Neal & The Smart Brothers - I've Got a Funny Feeling (1966)
Baby Neal & The Smart Brothers - I'm Not Ashamed (1965)
Fred Williams & The Jewels Band - Tell Her (1969)
Buy this amazing album over at the Numero Group. I recommend the 2LP.