Bittersweet Soul is one of the best compilations to come out this year. With an assortment of wonderful singers, both male and female, it takes you through the emotions in the ambivalent nature of love. The title is self-explanatory, inspired by the songs sung by these talented souls.

The album is accordingly categorised into 3 sections: the usual songs that you will hear at any given day, like Keisha White's interpretation of Joan Armatrading's Weakness In Me; Tamia's own version of George Micheal's Careless Whisper, which she covered for her self-titled debut album; Another Sad Love Song by the sexy and talented Toni Braxton; and Karyn White's anthem I'd Rather Be Alone.

Then there are songs you will hear every now and then. Amongst these are Natalie Cole's Miss You Like Crazy, the awesome No More Tears by Anita Baker, and Peabo Bryson's If Ever You're In My Arms Again. These are all done by seasoned singers in the genre.

The third segment is for songs that you don't usually hear on the radio. This section includes the beautifully sung I've Had Enough by the songbird Cindy Mizelle. This song was also once sung by the phenomenal Regina Belle and both ladies did an amazing job. I was actually introduced to Cindy's music by Thabo Mokwele when he was still with Metro FM. Also in this category is Miki Howard, singing But I Love You, Incognito's leading lady Maysa doing her edition of the classic Wishing On A Star, and songstress Oleta Adams' jazzy My Heart Won't Lie.

Bitterwseet Soul is a pot full of great music gems. Just like the title says, it's music inspired by the matters of the heart. The compiler did a great job blending the music for the disc.

YEAHBO.DOT.NET gives it 4/5 stars.