VARIOUS ARTISTS "TAMLA MOTOWN CONNOISSEURS" (SPECTRUM/UNIVERSAL)

As it's written on the cover of this superb Cd, "It's what's in the groove that counts". Richard Searling, the compiler, needs no presentation, when you deal with him you know what to expect. Here you will find 20 rare and unissued tracks from the vaults of Berry Gordy's mighty Motown stable. Regarding unreleased material, the brightest gems are "Here Are The Pieces Of My Broken Heart" by Gladys Knight And The Pips (what a dancer!), "Tell Me Your Story" by Motown's No. 1 diva Brenda Holloway, the definitive version of "Sunny" by Marvin Gaye, and "That'll Be The Day" by the Temptations. Classics abound too, the Isley's "My Love Is Your Love Forever" and the Four Tops "Where Did You Go" epitomise classy 60's soul. More recent discoveries are the instrumental sax driven groover "Ain't That The Truth" by Jr. Walker's and the Originals "Don't Stop Now", a super-catchy midtempo from their "Portrait Of" album. Luckily this is a special price Cd, on sale at only £ 6-7. For all Motown's fans, Jo Wallace is preparing another compilation of Detroit's finest moments.