The Master Series showcases the best work of artists who deserve such a release but don't have enough major chart hits to warrant a flashy 'Greatest Hits' compilation. Back in the Sixties, the Salford-born Elaine Bookbinder adopted the stage name Elkie Brooks and sang her way through the jazz and r&b clubs until she found herself singing with Robert Palmer in the acclaimed but mostly unsuccessful Seventies group, Vinegar Joe. She released her debut 'Rich Man's Woman' on A&M and a follow-up, 'Two Days Away' soon after. The single from 'Two Days Away' was the ironic story of a plucky cabaret singer who just can't seem to make the big time and 'Pearl's A Singer' became the song that broke Elkie Brooks worldwide.

A string of well-received albums and polished songs saw Elkie Brooks retain her popularity well into the Nineties. There are 18 of these songs on this collection including her covers of Neil Young's 'Only Love Can Break Your Heart', Gallagher and Lyle's 'The Runaway', and Chris Rea's 'Fool If You Think It's Over'. Also present is 'Lilac Wine' which had the honour of being covered by the late, great Jeff Buckley on his first and essentially, last album, 'Grace'. She also betrays her age and roots with sparkling versions of the rock 'n' roll classics 'Love Potion No.9' and 'He's a Rebel'.

Stephen "Sugar" Segerman

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