Some Mavis, some Mavisn't

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THE Mavis project couldn't be more up and down if you listened to it while trampolining in a lift.

Because each track on the LP, made up of subdued Ashley Beedle and Darren Morris electronica compositions inspired by soul singer and political activist Mavis Staples' music, is fronted by a different guest vocalist.

And you can tell which ones are going to be worth a spin by looking at the singer involved.

Ed Harcourt? Superb.

Cerys Matthews? Embarrasing.

Candi Staton? Soulful.

The only exceptions to this pattern are the unknown quantities, such as Sinful Love's Disa, who all acquit themselves well.