This three-disc set by Goldies packaging together some of the greatest names in the history of soul promises original artists and that's what you get. What you don't get are the original performances. All of these songs have been re-recorded for television appearances, later greatest-hits compilations, reunion tours, and live performances. That said, it can be heartbreaking to hear a version of "People Get Ready" by
the Impressions without
Jerry Butler, or
Ben E. King drag a line or two in "Stand by Me," or a choir even bigger than the one on the original single take
Edwin Hawkins' "Oh Happy Day," and blow it out of proportion, losing the more subtle aspects of the original. One cannot recommend this set to anyone who is emotionally or critically invested in historic performances.