Twelve-inch versions of most 80s songs are pointless, overstretched versions of what were perfectly-formed three-minute pop songs.

But 12"/80s Love, a three-disc set, works quite well since it contains mostly slow and mid-tempo tracks perfect for background music.

After the first flush of nostalgia it settles down to become an ideal soundtrack for laid-back evenings, mixing well-known songs with rarely-heard tunes.

The disc devoted to soul songs is excellent, while the pop disc shows that even electronic music could be evocative.

Shelby Lynne -- Just a Little Lovin'.

The US country singer explores the Dusty Springfield songbook with classics like The Look of Love, Anyone Who Had a Heart and I Only Want to Be With You.

It's more a tribute to the songs than the star, for these laid-back, stripped-down, slowed-up versions sounds nothing like Dusty's unforgettable originals.

There's still a lot of emotion, but it's less soul-searing and heart-rending, more gentle and full of longing thanks to Shelby's lovely voice.

If you have the patience to listen, this is an excellent album which veers more towards soft jazz and blues than country.

Songbirds -- Wake-Up Call.

Every so often girl singers come along with albums of lovely middle-of-the-road songs that are immediately likeable.

Rarely do they stay on the CD player after the first month of addictive listening. I suspect this will be different.

The songs are catchy, any one of them a potential single, and there are nice harmonies amongst the poppy acoustic guitars.

But the irresistible hooks are accompanied by moments of emotion, by turns joyous and yearning, giving the songs lost an appeal.