These days, there are just so many classic acts of the Motown era that've been all but forgotten, in favor of soul wannabe acts like Ciara, Ashanti, and Ruben Studdard from American Idol that just don't have the appeal of the classic days of soul that were just astonishing. That happened long ago, especially with Smokey Robinson. Even though he hasn't scored a hit record in years, the soulfulness he has made for so many eras of lovers has not lost its edge. The songs still are just delightful to listen to. Now, another hits record has surfaced that shines so bright on one of the most classic singers of all time.

The 2006 Smokey Robinson & The Miracles Gold, is a nearly definitive, and well-conjured hits record that showcases Smokey, and 40 of his biggest hits on his own, and with his defiant era as a part of The Miracles. The Motown classics here have all be restored very well, and bring out the best songs in a longtime. The album includes great classics like Tears Of A Clown, the somber Tracks Of My Tears, Ooh Baby Baby, Shop Around, and many other classics. The collection also delivers brightly with Smokey on his solo efforts, a little better than last year's My World: Definitive Collection on songs like Let Me Be The Clock, Crusin', the #1 R&B soul hit Being With You, and Just To See Her. Sadly though, the collection overlooks a few great tracks from Smokey's solo efforts like I Must Have Made Love To You A Thousand Times, and his 1990 #2 hit Everything You Touch.

All in all, despite a few overlooked songs, Smokey Robinson & The Miracles Gold is a delightful reintroduction to one of the most soulful songers, and classic Motown groups of all time. If you love some of the classic era Motown than this is a must buy for you, as well as die hard Smokey Robinson fans. If you haven't heard any of these classics before, than I also suggest this great buy, just to hear him again.

Album Cover: B

Songs: B 1/2+

Price: B 1/2-

Remastering: B+

Overall: B

If you are looking for a definitive CD with the majority of the tracks in true living stereo, this is the one. Of all of the collections, this is his best effort. Not only do you get the best from Smokey & the Miracles, but you also get Smokey as an individual. This is one of the only CDs that has THE Best Stereo version of I Don't Blame You At All. There is no filler here. Pure great Soul music from the 60's. The only two hits missing are Do It and Love Machine by just the Miracles. Otherwise, for the first time listener or for the veteran fan, this is the CD to purchase. Great sound, production, stereo, and that magic voice of Smokey. This is a winner. Pure Gold!