The Shortest Night Sound Training Centre***

Every year, students at Dublin’s Sound Training Centre record a themed compilation to raise funds for a good cause. Last year’s celebration of 1986 pop hits was in aid of Mindshare, while this year’s compilation features a host of local musical luminaries reshaping classic soul tunes in aid of Dublin’s Simon Community.

From a subtle and graceful glide through Marvin Gaye's Mercy Mercy Me from Conor O'Brien and Villagers to an ensemble rendition of Ben E King's Stand By Me, there's much here to warrant further investigation. Even the choice of songs is sometimes telling: Republic of Loose frontman Mik Pyro does wonders with The Dramatics' classic rare groove In the Rain, with just voice and piano. Last year's compilation yielded a mainstream hit in the shape of James Vincent McMorrow's Higher Love, so it will be interesting to see if this year's class produce a similar pay-off. soundtraining.com

Download tracks:Mercy Mercy Me; In the Rain