Welcome aboard n.darcq,
A majority of the mainstream compilations (the cash in stuff that you see in the charts) ain't worth their salt but you are bang on with Kent. I am sure a majority of people on Soul Source would agree that Kent comps opened up a varied scope of soul throughout the eighties (Ady has a lot to answer to for a % of my past wants).
Because you like soul music it doesn't mean to say you have to like all of it, it is so varied and by the talk on this site about oldies, newies, modern, northern, r n' b, jazz, funk there is plenty to argue/agree on.
It's a minefield out there and the amount of pap that I have bought blind just to find an elusive tune still doesn't dissuade me cause when you find the sound you want, it makes it all worth while.
Any time you find yourself at a soul night, speak to some folks. You will be surprised at the amount of tape/CD swapping goes on within the scene(even on here). This is a lot more helpful knowing the recently playing sounds that are giving people a kick and can serve a purpose helping you to achieve the goal of finding your style of artists/ labels/era.
Certain club nights have playlist policys of styles of soul (modern, r n'b, oldies, strictly newies, atb). It could be a bit disheartening if you love 60's and go to a modern night by not knowing the policy. A newbie might even be put off for good if that's not their bag.
A bit of research goes a long way and you couldn't do any better than coming on here. Plenty of everything and all friendly too (sometimes, lol).
Hope I have been a help, and good luck.
H