SOUTHAMPTON'S Brook music venue will be bubbling with the sound of sweet soul music throughout February.

On the menu are favourites Rufus Stone, Edwin Starr of War fame and the sensational Atlantic Soul Machine. Even this Saturday's opener, The Climax Blues Band, have a strong soul element with the smoky voice of Colin Cooper, one of the most soulful voices on the blues scene.

Rufus Stone, who play at The Brook on Saturday, February 8, are now in their 20th year of playing authentic Sixties soul. Songs in their set include classics by the likes of Otis Redding, James Brown and Wilson Pickett and selections from The Blues Brothers and The Commitments.

The present eight-piece line-up is a mixture of new faces and old stagers - Henry Wright on drums, Malc Eyers on vocals, Solly Read on bass, Keith Loader on guitar and Graham Holt on keyboards complete the rhythm section, with Mark, Ian and Jez making up the horn section.

Edwin Starr arrives at The Brook on Friday, February 21 to crowd the stage with a 12-piece band. The man from Nashville, Tennessee, has played a leading part on the soul and dance scene since way back in 1956.

A strong-voiced soul-shouter and born entertainer, Edwin relocated to the UK in the 1980s after a series of hits including Stop Her on Sight, Headline News and Contact.

Atlantic Soul Machine, who play the venue on Friday February 28, are synonymous with everything that's good about soul, Motown and funk. In the eight-piece line-up are some superb musicians and singers who have played with Rufus Thomas, Georgie Fame and Geno Washington.

Soul brothers and soul sisters can find out more information on these acts and the full February programme at The Brook by calling the box office on 023 8055 5366.