The Stripped Mixes

iTunes Review

Motown’s second volume of “stripped mixes” stars Smokey Robinson, one of the label’s best-known figures and most underrated vocalists. Robinson brought to soul music an overarching femininity and vulnerability at a time when ultra-masculine shouters like David Ruffin and Otis Redding were favored. This collection spans Robinson’s early career, from his glory days with the Miracles to his popular solo singles from the late '70s and early '80s. In stripping away the rhythm tracks and overdubs to these classic songs, new elements take shape. We are able to better appreciate the subtleties of Smokey’s vocals, and his mastery of songwriting structure and harmonic arrangement. Undoubtedly, rhythm-driven songs like “I Second That Emotion” and “The Tears of a Clown” lose their essence under this treatment, but other songs gleam like polished diamonds. The rhythmless takes of “Cruisin’” and “Quiet Storm” are ethereal, sublime, and near psychedelic experiences. An a cappella take of “Ooo Baby Baby” loses nothing, and instead seems to bring out the timeless simplicity within the song’s famously pillowy arrangement.