This DVD release is a retitled and slightly re-edited version of the 1985 video retrospective Yesterday Once More; one assumes that the old title was no longer relevant to most fans, as well as being a bit confusing since, as on the audio compilation of the same name, "Yesterday Once More" was one of the few major songs that wasn't featured on the release. The change also removes it a step from being a memorial to Karen Carpenter, toward being just a celebration of the group. The collection was already out as a DVD in Hong Kong under its original title in a package that included souvenir Carpenters stationery and an onscreen biography of the group in Chinese and optional Chinese and English subtitles. Gold: Greatest Hits is a lot simpler in its menu selections, but is otherwise largely identical to the old laserdisc and videocassette release (of which the latter remains in print under the old title). All of the usual improvements between formats do apply, however -- resolution so high that every little flaw in the filmed account of "Hurting Each Other" is visible and generally excellent sound. Additionally, this is a major jump up from the laserdisc, which barely appeared in a version with digital audio playback before it vanished, around 1990 or so. The 20-dollar list price is also a lot more reasonable than either the laserdisc or the Hong Kong edition. ~ Bruce Eder 734027 Sylvia Vanderpool-Robinson's sexy voice first broke out on "Love Is Strange," a hit duet with guitarist Mickey Baker credited to Mickey & Sylvia. She mostly relegated the singing chores to others at All Platinum Records, which she owned with her husband, Joe Robinson, but managed enough sessions to crank out the alluring "Pillow Talk," proving that men still get hot and bothered listening to her kitten-ish delivery. She cut more cream puffs; however, none elevated as high. But after listening to "Sho Nuff Boogie" (with the Moments), "Sweet Stuff," and "Soul J'Aime" with Ralfi Pagan, you'll wonder why. All Platinum's house band lay down some infectious shuffling grooves on the ups and mid-tempo tracks and lay low on the slow stuff. She shows love on two Marvin Gaye songs: "You Sure Love to Ball" and the longing "Distant Lover"; while neither rank with the originals, they're interesting, particularly the former. Her update of Holland-Dozier-Holland's "Don't Leave Me Starving" is a different animal with a female vocal and "Pussy Cat" would get banned in Canada. Twenty songs may be too much sweet, sticky stuff to digest in one sitting, but Sylvia excites and relaxes you at the same time. A good CD to put on repeat and crash on, but beware of what you may dream. ~ Andrew Hamilton