Reviewed by Phil Thomson

Miracles take a little longer - say those who specialize in the impossible. So how do you package a Motown legend, whose songs, such as "Tracks Of My Tears" and "My Guy" rank with the greatest? For those weaned on the Tamla years who remember Smokey Robinson and the Miracles, you will know he is his own hard act to follow. Yet he may never have made it but for a testament to faithful prayer - the real miracle which brought him out of self-inflicted darkness. You can almost sense the relief and joy in his voice as he eases through this wonderfully sensitive set - a smooth, soaring celebration of love - only occasionally edging down a particularly poignant phrase with enough sand to make sure you get the message. The album positively breathes fresh soul with, thankfully, never a hint of pretentious evangelistic fervour: he's aware of his place, and sticks to what he knows best.  Significantly still a Motown artiste, Smokey gathers around him some cool players and classy arrangements which do justice to his status. This is one for night moves and quiet thoughts, worthy of home shelf life as an intimate portrait of a miracle of grace

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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