Good thread Bearsy - Ouch!
I began my soul career like most - initiated with the 60's sounds - you mention the Salvadors - what a classy tune. I like good soul music. I still like the oldies but these days prefer seventies and anything up to new release stuff.
The best era musically - in terms of what was being played, for me was 1977 - 1984. Richard Searling at the Casion was awesome - his new sixties and modern were phenomenal. 1979 and the oldies/newies debate - I went along with Sam, Arthur, Poke etc.
Having said this I like all sorts.