WMNF host Jeff Stewart’s long-running Friday program (it used to be on Wednesdays) features hefty helpings of classic R&B and soul ranging from the obvious to those obscure gems that force listeners to scour iTunes searching the stuff out. Stewart also gooses his broadcasts with the occasional blues or reggae side and a tune like “Love is a Losing Game,” by Amy Winehouse, that rare contemporary hitmaker who can hold her own alongside the titans of yesteryear. Stewart’s enthusiasm, exquisite taste and vast knowledge make The Rhythm Vault as good a reason as any to head home early and curl up next to the radio or download the broadcast online.

blog.myspace.com/rhythmvault.

This article appears in Sep 12-18, 2007.