Although it is comprised solely of unreleased recordings, Lost & Found has the effect of a greatest hits collection. In that mysterious, pre-Beatles era, the Miracles were arguably Detroit’s finest group, notable for the chemistry between Robinson and his female counterpart (and real-life wife) Claudette Rogers. In a town that liked its dance music tough and sweet, the Miracles fit the bill. Listening now to “I Love Your Baby,” “My Mama Done Told Me” and “Yes, No, Maybe So” it’s easy to imagine the excitement of the local dances, as teenage R&B blossomed into the Motown pop of “I Like It Like That.” One of the great pleasures of Lost & Found is it highlights the Miracles in their unpolished state, before the Motown grooming machine smoothed their edges. “I Need a Change” wasn’t the kind of song Berry Gordy wanted—it’s too rough, too unnerving—yet it still raises the hairs on one’s neck. The difference between the tastes of inner Detroit and later-period Motown is made clear on the live version of “Shop Around” that closes this collection — it’s as raw and frenetic as a James Brown workout.
Other Versions
- The Miracles
- Four Tops
- Martha Reeves & The Vandellas
- The Supremes & Four Tops
- Junior Walker & The All Stars