THE concept of revisiting your greatest hits with a selection of A-List celebrity guests has worked a treat for the likes of Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Charles Aznavour and Tammy Wynette. So being the writer of so many classic pop songs, it was almost inevitable that Mr Robinson would want to follow this well-travelled route.

Looking at the final credits, Smokey And Friends demonstrates the love and affection bestowed upon Mr Robinson’s glorious song book. Overseen by the legendary soul producer and American Idol judge Randy Jackson, the set includes, among others, contributions from Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler, John Legend, CeeLo Green and James Taylor on the 12 tracks.

Fortunately for the guest acts, Smokey Robinson has a vast catalogue to choose from, and the riches have been evenly allocated. Sir Elton John combines his rich baritone with Smokey’s angelic tones on a solid Tracks Of My Tears, and Sheryl Crow adds her talent to The Tears Of A Clown.

Mary J Blige rejuvenates perhaps one of Smokey’s lesser tunes, albeit a UK number one, Being With You, but unwisely, Jessie J adds a spoken introduction to her contribution to Cruisin’, while Miguel, Aloe Blacc and JC Chasez add a new twist to My Girl.

Surprisingly, the set includes two covers of the Temptations’ hit Get Ready. Gary Barlow brings a new funky edge to it, whereas Imelda May sticks to a more conventional, in-house Motown Funk Brothers arrangement. On this occasion, Imelda May wins the battle.

Smokey Robinson has been in Britain this week promoting this lovely album, which has shot to the top of the charts. It is probably a fair bet that Volume Two may follow next autumn.