Once again, the U.K.-based Harmless label harvests a set of laid-back R&B and jazz-funk from the '70s, focusing on rare grooves that have been given new life throughout the years by the rap world. And, like its predecessor, Mellow Mellow, Vol. 2 (subtitled "The Feeling Keeps on Coming") doubles as a rather listenable compilation. Unfortunately, there's a dip in the overall quality of the songs gathered here, but there's still enough to recommend it, and most translates to the present extremely well. If you have the initial installment of Mellow Mellow, you might as well pick this one up as well. Despite the fact that two songs are titled "Winter Sadness" (Kool & the Gang's flip to "Summer Madness," featuring even crazier keyboard work from Ronald Bell) and "King Heroin" (the instrumental version of the James Brown song), the themes of summer and romance are drizzled throughout these easygoing selections. The compilation's producers show a graceful touch with the sequencing, opening up with Lonnie Liston Smith & the Cosmic Echoes' "Space Lady," a sweet, upbeat pacesetter with lovely flute trills and Smith's inimitable handiwork on the keys. Roy Ayers, who isn't as much of a presence here as he is on the first Mellow Mellow, contributes "Everytime I See You," a concise vocal number that flows like a steady afternoon breeze. Following the string-drenched psychedelic soul of Rotary Connection's take on "Respect" with Minnie Riperton's silky, ecstatic "Inside My Love" is a nice touch, showcasing the range of Riperton's all-too-short career. Finally, any disc's worth is instantly increased by the inclusion of Rufus' "Sweet Thing"; if Mary J. Blige can't improve upon the original, you know it's an unassailable classic. ~ Andy Kellman, All Music Guide