Album: The Marvelettes, Forever, (Motown)

The Supremes weren't even the best girl group on Motown, let alone in the world. The Marvelettes were, although these things are, of course, a matter of taste.

Another take: as La Ross's lot were to Girls Aloud, so the 'Lettes were to TLC: streetsy, sassy, soulful girls at their best. Plus they got there first, "Please Mr Postman" and all. Here are their first half dozen albums plus bonus and live cuts, the Motown sound in its early pomp. And, in Gladys Horton, one of the great forgotten voices: the Incredible Husk.