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Ten Tracks That Made NuNorthern Soul: Phil Cooper’s Definitive Selection

Kono Vidovic November 22, 2025 81 2 5


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NuNorthern Soul has always stood for timeless music that invites reflection, movement and a sense of discovery. What began with Phil Cooper’s Sunday post club sessions grew into a label that brings together global sounds, deep musical heritage and a Balearic spirit that continues to evolve. With the recent attention on Jasper Van’t Hof’s Pili Pili and the Selected Works collection, the label again demonstrates its dedication to preserving important musical stories.

Phil Cooper B&W Eyes groot

For this feature, Phil Cooper shares ten tracks that shaped the sound and soul of NuNorthern Soul. These pieces capture the warmth, diversity and emotional depth that define the label today.

Phil Cooper’s Ten Essential Tracks

Ragz Nordset – You Started It All [Ron Basejam Remix]

A serene and unhurried collaboration between Ragz Nordset and Mario Leal. Ron Basejam adds depth and warmth, creating a slow burning classic that reflects the early NuNorthern Soul vibe. It remains a perfect example of the label’s calm but emotionally charged aesthetic.

B.J. Smith – Hold On To It [Jonny Nash Remix]

Jonny Nash reworks B.J. Smith with delicate restraint. The remix introduces space, subtlety and an intimate atmosphere that lets every element breathe. It is one of the standout reinterpretations in the label’s history.

El Turronero – Las Penas

A fully licensed reissue of a highly sought after 1980 seven inch. El Turronero delivers powerful flamenco vocals over a hypnotic rhythm that fits effortlessly into Balearic and eclectic DJ sets. This track is a hidden gem revived with care.

Joan Bibiloni – Lailala Lailala

Mallorcan guitarist Joan Bibiloni offers dreamy, slow motion melodies that evoke sunrise moments. The track reflects one of NuNorthern Soul’s strongest curatorial threads: Balearic guitar music that lifts the spirit.

Ryo Kawasaki – Hawaiian Caravan [Andy Hanley Rework]

This rework celebrates the pioneering sound of Ryo Kawasaki. Andy Hanley extends the piece into a glowing Balearic journey while keeping the spirit of the original intact. It highlights the label’s respect for musical innovators.

Joan Bibiloni & JIM featuring Rhys Ifans – Badia Onirica

A unique collaboration that celebrates the shared cultural moment between Wales and the Balearic Islands. Poetry, guitar textures and vocal narration come together to create something both reflective and uplifting.

Jasper Van’t Hof – Pili Pili [Coyote Double Drop 2024 Edit]

The track that opened the door to the new retrospective. Originally released in 1984, Pili Pili blends jazz fusion with African percussion in a trance infused performance that became a Balearic essential. Coyote’s 2024 edit respectfully introduces it to new listeners.

Maarten Goetheer – Hymn of the Heart

A heartfelt tribute to Chick Corea created with Bangkok drummer Pong Nakornchai. The piece merges contemporary production with jazz tradition and reveals a strong emotional core.

Balaphonic – Oxum

A project from Manchester’s Danny Moodymanc Ward. Oxum channels spiritual jazz energy with rhythmic layers and a captivating groove that builds tension and release. It stands out as one of the label’s modern highlights.

B.J. Smith featuring Joe Harvey Whyte – Don’t Be Cruel [Mother Earth Version]

A cosmic country interpretation with a thirteen minute runtime. The extended arrangement and pedal steel performance from Joe Harvey Whyte create a drifting, cinematic landscape.

Conclusion

Phil Cooper’s selection reveals the breadth and emotional depth of the NuNorthern Soul catalogue. From flamenco to jazz fusion and Balearic folk to cosmic country, each track carries the spirit of discovery that has defined the label since its beginnings. With renewed attention on the music of Jasper Van’t Hof and Pili Pili, the story continues with the same dedication to timeless sound.


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Kono Vidovic
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Kono Vidovic

DJ | MUSIC CURATOR & SELECTOR | PODCAST MAKER | BLOGGER Professional online interpreneur. Coffee practitioner. Electronic music culture maven. Total music guru. Infuriatingly humble problem solver. Food & sports fanatic.

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