AMG Review of Definitive Collection

Al Campbell
All Music Guide

The Definitive Collection delivers 18 essential tracks by the Marvelettes, spanning seven years on Motown Records. Though the songs aren't in chronological order, all of the important hits from that era are represented, from their first number one, "Please Mr. Postman" in 1961, through their last chart entry, "My Baby Must Be a Magician" in 1968. Also peppered throughout are strong lesser-heard tracks like "Someday, Someway," "Strange I Know," and "Too Strong to be Strung Along." While not as generous as the 25-track Ultimate Collection on Motown, it's convenient to have all the original hits on one disc.