Album Review: Jill Scott - The Real Thing: Words And Sounds Vol. 3

Jill Scott - The Real Thing: Words and Sounds Vol. 3

01 - Let It Be - I didn't like it at first, but once I began listening to the lyrics and how she was actually interpreting the lyrics, I instantly fell in love with this song. The song is great instrumentally, lyrically, and vocally and has an awesome message--whatever it is, just let it be! Rating: 3/5

02 - The Real Thing - Okay, so I caught her "Soul Story" on VH1 Soul for promotion of this CD and I absolutely fell in love with this song at first listen. The version this song is far more tame and less adventurous than what she performed on VH1 Soul (I highly recommend scouring youtube for that performance). However, the song is absolute genius. Highly rock infused, but still somehow keeps the R&B and Soul pulsing it forward. Great job, Jill! Rating: 4/5 (VH1 Soul Version Rating: 5/5)

03 - Hate On Me - Jill gave a little commentary of this song on her site weeks before the song was released and it really helps flesh out why this song was recorded--essentially, she googled herself and found a site of people hating on her. Rather than letting her feelings get hurt, she read each message, noting those that made a good point and discarding those that were simply malicious just for hating's sake. She came to the conclusion: people are going to hate on you if you're in some way more talented than them in an area which they wish to be talented. Very true. The message of this song is awesomely poetic, the instrumentation is superb, and the vocals are raw, passionate and soulful. Rating: 5/5

04 - Come See Me - Now this is music! Passionate and sexy, this track is! The organ and the horns really take you back to the late 70's-early 80s when music actually was about mystery, message, and actually good. Jill truly interprets each and every lyrics she sings. Even if you've never felt like this about another person, you get the opportunity to feel the love, passion, and desire that she has for another person. It's an excellent track! No oversinging or big vocals, just a laid back reading from the soul. Rating: 4/5

05 - Crown Royal - Lyrically, this song is rated R. It's a short track, but just enough so that she describes a whole sexual encounter without describing it lewdly. The visuals are great without being hardcore or even softcore for that matter. Rating: 4/5

06 - Epiphany - This song goes a little further lyrically than the last song. "...Rode Mt. St. Scott until cream lava landed on my skin and neck...He plowed inside like he was making beats..." This is a song for lovers. Plain and simple. This song, spoken word only, is poetic in her delivery. It explores the passion of the moment in every sense. Wow. Rating: 4/5

07 - My Love - I can definitely hear she and Erykah Badu duetting on this track. Instrumentally and lyrically, this song is her answer to Erykah's "Green Eyes." This is just good, solid, soul music and you can tell that Jill actually has experienced what she's singing about in some way or another because she's excellent in interpreting and relating the message back to the listener. Furthermore, she doesn't suffer from the same plague affecting most "singers" today: she sings the melody, adlibs adequately, stays on key, and is not struggling to stay relevant by selling out her musical genuis for a #1 hit. Rating: 4/5

08 - Insomnia - This a half spoken word and half-sung track, and strangely enough, this is the song you kind of song you would be playing if you were up waiting on your significant other to get home from a night out; this is the kind of song I'd be listening to if I were waiting on my girl to get home. It's not too much instrumentally and vocally and evokes the kind of sleepiness you'd be feeling while waiting up. Another solid track lyrically, instrumentally, and vocally. Rating: 4.5/5

09 - How It Make You Feel - This is real music. Another nice solid track, instrumentally, lyrically, and vocally. Rating: 4/5

10 - Only You - This song samples some song, I just can't for the life of me figure out what the song is! Nevertheless, Jill is all about making real music and this is real music again. I mean, this song is solid while remaining relevant in today's musical climate in a quiet storm kinda way. Good job, Jill! Rating: 3.5/5

11 - Whenever You're Around - The last half of this song is where the song truly comes to life. She begins to push out this angry soul that the lyrical content demands but then she restrains it into a guiltly soul, making the listener actually feel if they are in the relationship with Jill and are being talked to--yelled out, chewed out--by Jill. We're now going through the phases of the relationship, I realize; we've gone from the lust and sexual attraction to the not-so-good days, to the wondering where they are, to letting them know that she feels lonely whenever you're around. If you're fresh out of a relationship, I don't advise getting this far into the album. Rating: 3.5/5

12 - Celibacy Blues - Definitely a blues song and we're now at the next part of the relationship: the imminent end of the relationship. A lot of people today try recording a bluesy song but it comes off as contrived and forced. This is natural and probably one of the most solid blues songs I've heard in a long time! Rating: 4.75/5

13 - All I - The sex kitten delivery she uses on this song is absolutely amazing. This song is very Mariah Carey of her. I can really hear Mariah on this. This is more than likely the next single if her record company is smart. It doesn't undercut her soul or musical vision, but it also would make it (not to number #1) on today's radio. It's the one of the most commercial songs on the album. Rating: 3.5/5

14 - Wanna Be Loved - Another spoken word and sung track, and it's pure genius. Reminds me of being in a poetry cafe. It has a very freestyle feeling to it, but then again, it's very structured and layered. It's an excellent song instrumentally, lyrically, and vocally. Superb! Rating: 5/5
15 - Breathe - It's very 80's meets mid-90's, but it still works, and it's a great way to end the album; she lets you know that after it's all said and done and all of the highs and lows are over, just breathe, find equlibrium, and you'll be fine. And truly--she's absolutely right. Rating: 4/5

Overall Album Review:

Okay, I can't say that any of these songs would be catchy enough to be stuck in your head save "Hate On Me" and "The Real Thing." That's not necessarily a bad thing or to say that the songs on this album aren't memorable. They are definitely memorable, just in a different way. Anyone who has ever been in a relationship will relate each song to an experience in the relationship. Definitely a strong album from start to finish; probably one of the most solid overall efforts I've heard since Tamia's "Between Friends."
Jill definitely has a style and soul all her own and she's not shy about sharing it. She will take you through your fondest memories through your most bitter regrets to your "what the heck was I thinking?!" moments and and you'll appreciate her all the more for saying things that you just couldn't find the words for. There's not a dull moment or track on this album, and if you don't buy this album, you're truly missing a treat. Jill Scott is the real thing.

Overall Album Rating: 4.5/5

Album Review: Mary J. Blige - The Breakthrough

"The Breakthrough"

01 - No One Will Do - It's a very gospel-driven "Through the Fire" reincarnate and that's what makes this song work. Unfortunately, that's the only thing that makes this song work. The base driven dramatic instrumentation of this song makes it little more than something you would listen to only while cleaning up the house on a boring Saturday morning. The song is a tad too busy instrumentally and vocally.
POTENTIAL TO BE A SINGLE: None.
RATING: 2/5

02 - Enough Cryin (featuring Brook) - There are a couple of reasons this song should resonate with any reasonable Mary J. fan: 1) It's a Darkchild song, so the piano instrumentation is impeccible; 2) In EVERY way, this is the 2005 version of "Not Gon' Cry." However, in this version, she's finished crying, not so heartbroken, and is moving on. It's more of a women's anthem proclaiming, "You so dumb to think you gon' marry me...I got to be out my mind thinkin' someone gon' carry me! It's time I do something for me!" Very nice. Very, very nice.
POTENTIAL TO BE A SINGLE: High. (In the urban market)
RATING: 4/5

03 - About You (featuring Will-I-Am) - I can really hear Erykah Badu singing this very ol' school track. Maybe that's the mistake--maybe they should have given this to Badu because it it doesn't work with Mary; it gets very tedious and boring to listen to, especially
instrumentally. Find the skip button nearest you and use it.
POTENTIAL TO BE A SINGLE: None.
RATING: 1/5

04 - Be Without You - There is no reason that song shouldn't be a HUGE hit! Everything is right about it. This song has #1 written all over it, especially if marketed and remixed properly for club use. This is Mary's "We Belong Together" (which I also predicted would be the hugest hit off of Mariah's album). Excellent!!!
POTENTIAL TO BE A SINGLE: DEFINITE.
RATING: 5/5

05 - Gonna Breakthrough (featuring Brook) - The vocals and harmonies are excellent. However, as the title track, this leaves MUCH to be desired. It's very "we don't need no hateration...in this dancery" inspired" lyrically. Instrumentally, it's a FILLER track--and that's what makes it less than...well, listenable, especially as the title track.
POTENTIAL TO BE A SINGLE: Little to none.
RATING: 2/5

06 - Good Woman Down - Filler track. However, with the right remix and the the right rapper, this song could turn into a huge single. The vocals are tight on this song. The instrumentation is lackluster. Based on the title, one is expecting more of an anthem, but instead, it comes off as an imiation "Babymama" (Fantasia).
POTENTIAL TO BE A SINGLE: None.
RATING: 1.5/5

07 - Take Me As I Am - Okay. One pet peeve I have is when an artist takes poetic license and decides to switch persons between the verses and chorus (VERSE: SHE'S strong, SHE'S alright --> Chorus: Take ME as I am...). That aside, this is Mary's follow-up to "Deep Inside", minus the Elton John. And that's what this song is possibly missing: Elton and one of his catchy instrumentals. This song is very repetitive and boring. Next.
POTENTIAL TO BE A SINGLE: None.
RATING: 1/5

08 - Baggage - Quite literally this is the answer to Erykah Badu's "Bag Lady." Everything Erykah addresses in "Lady", Mary resolves in "Baggage." This song doesn't really pick up until about 2 minutes in but it's well worth the wait, in my opinion. Mary begins to really sing and relate to the lyrics during and after this point. It's at this point when Mary begins to believe what she's singing and the listener can feel that.
POTENTIAL TO BE A SINGLE: Moderate.
RATING: 3.5/5

09 - Can't Hide From Luv (featuring Jay-Z) - Cissy Houston has never been so right in her life when she said if you start off high, there's no where else to go. Mary had nowhere to go but down on this song and like a bomb slowly heading down to the earth from the stratosphere, this song eventually explodes.
POTENTIAL TO BE A SINGLE: None.
RATING: 1.5/5

10 - MJB da MVP - This is an autobiographical piece about her career and the only reason this song works happens, again, at about 2 minutes into the song where she lyrically reintroduces a great majority of her past songs. That's the only thing this song has going for it. Other than that, this song is dull, lifeless, and boring.
POTENTIAL TO BE A SINGLE: None.
RATING: .75/5

11 - Can't Get Enough - (About this point in the album, I'm so ready to turn it off, but there HAS to be something better coming up!) Dull, lifeless, boring, drab....
POTENTIAL TO BE A SINGLE: None.
RATING: .75/5

12 - Ain't Really Love - I'm EXTREMELY HAPPY that I didn't turn this album off. This is sure to be another Mary classic. This is the prequel to "Not Gon' Cry." In this song, she's seeing the problems beginning, and questioning herself before she blames him. The vocal arrangement and the vocals themselves are WONDERFUL. She sings with this so much fire and soul that you begin to get angry at this "man" that she's singing about! Saaaang on, Mary!!! This will definitely be on repeat.
POTENTIAL TO BE A SINGLE: DEFINITE.
RATING: 4.75/5

13 - I Found My Everything (featuring Raphael Saadiq) - SWEET GOD! YES, YES, YES, YES, YES, YES!!!!!!! This ol' SKEWL (yes, SKEWL) j.oint is so perfect in every way! The soul, the fire, the passion, the channeling of that gospel-fire! Mary is saaaaaaaaaanging the HELL out of this song and the instrumentation is perfect! They're not going to release this as a single, I know; it wouldn't work as a single in today's market, but damn if it doesn't work to as one to someone who has a real ear for music!!!! POIFECT!
POTENTIAL TO BE A SINGLE: Little to none, unfortunately.
RATING: 5/5

14 - Father In You - To all women who grew up fatherless and now seeking to find that in a mate, this song will get to all of you. To others, it will tug at your heartstrings, not because the song is excellent or because the instrumentation is extraordinary (neither of which it is), but the hurt, conviction, sadness, and pain Mary sings with makes the listener feel as if he's had the same experience. Effectively emoted, Mary.
POTENTIAL TO BE A SINGLE: None
RATING: 3.25/5

15 - Alone (featuring Dave Young) - The perfect breakup song when you really don't want to breakup. "I don't know what to do because I'm real tired of you" but I still want you, though. It's an interesting
dilemma she presents here, and that's what drives the song forward. Nice song and duet. Reminds me so much of P!nk and Steven Tyler's "Misery" on P!nk's "Mizundastood" album. The soulful gritiness and indecisiveness is the current that drives this song. Definitely a single.
POTENTIAL TO BE A SINGLE: DEFINITE
RATING: 3.75/5

16 - One (featuring U2) - As much as I thought this song would be contrived and forced, this song works amazingly, and I actually like Mary in the rock alternative genre because Mary is SAAAAAAAAAANING!
I'm actually shocked that this worked as well as it did! Kelly Clarkson better watch out because Mary could easily release this and make those Hazel Eyes of Kelly's weep with sadness. Good job, Mary!
POTENTIAL TO BE A SINGLE: Moderately high
RATING: 4.50/5

17 - So Lady (featuring Raphael Saadiq) - Instrumentally and the way the lyrics are sung, it's a more modern adaptation of "All That I Can Say" and this is not a bad thing. It works for this song. This is definitely a woman's anthem and Mary is holding back singing, but playing around with the song, something I've never heard her do before. Another gem.
POTENTIAL TO BE A SINGLE: High (only in urban market)
RATING: 3.75/5

Overall:

Well, what can I say except that no one can emote heartbreak and pain better than the Queen of Hip-Hop Soul herself. This album, while full of filler tracks, has many surprising standout tracks that work for
different reasons. This album is probably Mary's ticket to solid mainstream success. From deep, passion laced soul cuts to solid hip-hop j.oints to one powerfully dynamic rock alternative cut, this album is by far Mary's best. It captures the elements and themes that Mary leaves on each of her albums and for once, the listener gets to see the whole Mary, not just a side of her. Vocally, Mary is getting exponentially better. She's singing with MUCH more control and fluidity I've ever heard her do before with little pitch problems. If this album is marketed and promoted properly and aggressively, there's no doubt that it will Breakthrough the "Emancipation".

OVERALL RATING: 3.90/5
WOULD I RECOMMEND BUYING THIS: Yes. I'd buy this for "I Found My Everything" and "One" alone.

Album Review: Christina Aguilera - Back to Basics

Back To Basics

DISC ONE

01 - Intro (Back To Basics) - Your typical intro track, paying homage and tribute to all of the legends, trailblazers, and waymakers that came before her. RATING: 1/5

02 - Makes Me Wanna Pray - The instrumental is very jazzy, bluesy, with a little gospel sprinkled here and there. I honestly did not expect something like this from Christina; this more in the vein of Alicia Keys. It would not hurt for her to work on her enunciation and diction. Someone also should let her know that, in the immortal words of Cissy Houston, "if you start of big, you have nowhere to go." As a result, this comes off as a strained mess. This is contrived. Is it me or is the chorus reminiscent of MC Hammer's, "You've got to pray just to make it today......PRAAAAAAAAAAAAY!"? RATING: 1/5

03 - Back In the Day - Whoever told Christina that she was cut out to do old school R&B music told her wrong. This comes off as very forced. Back in the day, Christina, they wouldn't make crap like this and call it music. My wish for Christina: stop singing every song the same! There is no interpretation of the lyrics. She's simply singing and straining and any fool with a half a voice can do that. RATING: 1/5

04 - Ain't No Other Man - I loved this song from the time I saw her perform it on MTV, so I am sort of biased here. Of the tracks I've heard, it's the strongest on the album thus far. I love it. Good job, Xtina. RATING: 4/5

05 - Understand - BORING. BORING. If she would stop straining and learn how to actually caress and interpret a lyric, she'd have a killer song here. Again, the old school vibe falls flat on it's face. Sorry Xtina, this is not your calling. RATING: 1.5/5

06 - Slow Down Baby - When will she stop singing every song the same? RATING: 1/5

07 - Oh Mother - Now, this is what I'm talking about. She actually is beginning to interpret her lyrics. This song is a more classy version of Fantasia "Babymamaz." Christina pulls this off without a hitch. She did not oversing or strain this song. She simply sang it beautifully. While instrumentally it's nothing spectacular, her delivery more than makes up for that. RATING: 3.75/5

08 - F.U.S.S. - This is her answer to Justin Timberlake's "Cry Me A River." Again, she tries the old school vibe and strangely enough, it actually works for this song. My only qualm is that the song is far too short. I suppose it was intended as so, though. One question, though: what does F.U.S.S. stand for? Good job, Xtina! RATING: 3.5/5

09 - On Our Way - The runs are getting to be a bit too much because they're the same in every song. I love runs and riffs. However, when you recycle the same one's time after time, it gets tiring. There hasn't been a song yet that doesn't have some type of 3-4 second, echoed run. Nevertheless, the song is decent. Lyrically, it's no gem, but then again, it's no slouch either. Instrumentally, it did not match what she was singing. But it is a decent song. RATING: 3/5

10 - Without You - No, this is not a remake of MC's "Without You." This song is in the same vein as India.Arie's, "I Am Not My Hair." Christina seems to have real trouble completing a phrase or interpreting a lyric without a run or riff being involved. It seems as if her voice is not strong enough to stay on top of her note, so she must do some type of run. This type of song has been done too many times before: "what would I do without you? What could I see without you? How would my day be without you?" It's decent. RATING: 3/5

11 -Still Dirrty - It's parent song does not compare. This song is clever and catchy. Her delivery is sexy and fiery. Again, my only problem is that she's still harping on the same things as on "Stripped": a woman's sexuality under scrutiny of a man, emancipation and liberation, and a hunger to be somehow edgy and the Madonna of this generation. Whatever. At any rate, the song is actually quite nice, both musically and vocally. But Christina, go take a bath; don't nobody wanna smell that. RATING: 3.75/5

12 - Here To Stay - Instrumentally, it's a far less original version of Beyonce's "Crazy In Love". I guess every artist has their "Whatchulookinat" and this is Christina's. However, the tired runs and "yea-e-yea-e-yea-e-yeah-ah-ah's" are growing tiresome. Got a skip button? Use it. RATING: 2/5

13 - Thank You (Dedication to the Fans...) - The way she worked in some of her earlier hits into the intro was nice. That was the Christina who actually knew a little something about interpretation of a lyric. This is a nice song, though because it features the voices of her fans thanking and praising her. I admire her for doing this song. RATING: 5/5

DISC TWO

14 - Enter the Circus - Next. RATING: 1/5

15 - Welcome - Okay, instrumentally, this song is something that you'd dream about after eating bad Chinese food or pizza. Again, enunciation and diction falters here. Nevertheless, the theme behind the song is somewhat refreshing and clever in the current state of music. While it's not a favorite or even a strong track, it is original and she gets points in my book for that. RATING: 3.5/5

16 - Candyman - Now, this type of 20's swing is what Christina should have gone for if she was trying to go back to basics. She actually interprets this song as if she's an artist of the 20's. The instrumentation is very refreshing, and the symbolism and metaphors used in the lyrics, while somewhat simple and elementary, are sexually charged but innocent at the same time. Some lyrics remind me of 50 Cent's, "I'll take you to the candy shop/I'll let you lick the lollipop..." She even REALLY toned down the runs for this song! Good job, Christina. RATING: 4.5/5

17 - Nasty Naughty Boy - "Come here, big boy!" The sex in this song is subtle and electrifying. It reminds me of Jessica Rabbit's song from "Who Framed Roger Rabbit?" lyrically, instrumentally, and her delivery. This song is hot! This is her genre! Again, refreshing. I love this track! I can just see her in a small, crowded, smoke-filled jukejoint in the 20's, walking from table to table flirting with the men. "Put your icing on my cake." I wonder what that alluded to, Christina? Good job, Christina! RATING: 5/5

18 - I Got Trouble - No one does this type of music anymore. The old muffled radio/phonograph sound adds to this song's authenticity. Refreshing again. This is so Dorothy Dandridge and Josephine Baker of Christina to do. That ol' rasp that she adds to this song and the interpretation of the lyric is wonderful. Where was this Christina for the majority of the album? RATING: 4.75/5

19 - Hurt - Again, I ask: WHERE WAS THIS CHRISTINA FOR THE MAJORITY OF THE ALBUM? This is the Christina I fell in love with. She's actually singing and feeling what she's singing. She's not over singing. She's not running. She's not doing riffs. She's just.......singing it, and quite beautifully, I might add. Excellent, Christina! RATING: 5/5

20 -Mercy On Me - Heartfelt and desperate (in a good way). Her voice soars and soars and soars. Wow. RATING: 5/5

21 - Save Me From Myself - An acoustic gem. It's got that old 20's blues feel, and this is where Christina shines. She shows vocal vulnerability. You get to hear her without an abundance of instrumentation and reverb. You hear all of the cracks and parts of her voice that were not warmed up when she sang this and that's what makes this song such a gem. It's vulnerable and honest. Dare I say that this song is artistry. RATING: 5/5

22 - The Right Man - Another gem. Probably the single most strongest ballad I've heard in a LONG time. RATING: 4.75/5

Overall Album Review:

Disc 2 is where you want to be. Stay far, far away from Disc 1. Disc two is actually original and refreshing. Disc one is the same straining, oversinging, running and riffing. Disc 2, something happens to her and if it were released by itself, it would be the single most strong album I've heard since The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill. However, you must go through disc one first. Would I recommend this album? Yes. I'd recommend that you download before you buy because you honestly may not want disc 1. The girl can definitely sing. However, when is it too much is the question?

OVERALL RATING: 3.25/5

Album Review: Justin Timberlake - FutureSex/LoveSounds

FutureSex/LoveSounds

01 - Futuresex/Lovesounds - Lyrically, it's cheesy as heck! However, I'm feeling and appreciating this new, more masculine sounding Justin. He sings this song like a man with lots of experience in this area. This samples some 80's beat (I'm thinking something Michael Jackson's "Thriller," but I'm not completely sure) and it is the pulse that drives this song forward. His delivery and vocal on this song is, dare I say, artistic and interpretive. Good job, JT! Rating: 3.75/5

02 - SexyBack - (I had to listen to this with virgin ears.) Lyrically, I'm LOVING IT (ba da ba ba ba)! "You see these shackles babe, I'm your slave/I'll let you whip me if I misbehave". It's playfully erotic and that's what makes this song work. The one negative drawback of this song is the computer altered vocals of Justin we get in the verses. However, that's also what makes the song playfully erotic; a playful, drunken erotic. Go 'head, be gone with it, JT! Rating: 4/5

03 - Sexy Ladies (Let Me Talk To You) >Prelude< - Justin is doing some new things with this album and with his style in general. He's trying to establish street cred and sadly, it seems to be working, LOL. He's effectively experimenting with the lower extremities of his voice and even a little rapping, and he sounds great! Lyrically, it's nothing but the second coming of "Like I Love You" and "Rock Your Body." There's also something very Prince-like about this song, especially instrumentally and in his interpretation of the lyric. Killer club song, especially with a hot remix. Rating: 3.75/5

04 - My Love (featuring T.I.) - Okay, Justin has been studying Prince's formula for lyrical interpretation, because he's doing the dang thing! The beat is slightly annoying, but his vocal more than makes up for that. It's a mid-tempo groove that will DEFINITELY go on repeat! This is probably one of the best tracks and vocals from Justin that I've heard in a while. Heck, all things being considered, it's one of the best male vocals laid down on a hip-hop track in a heck of a long time! Rating: 4/5

05 - LoveStoned - I Think She Knows (Interlude) - Remember how "Don't Worry, Be Happy" had no real percussion except (or music for that matter)? Well, this is what it would sound like remixed, updated, and hip-hopped. It's Justin's not-so-trademarked beatboxing. Lyrically, it's a song that a lot of men can relate to (and probably a lot of women as well). I like it. His delivery is very convincing and he's bringing the fire on his vocal! I'm just not feeling the abrupt drop off of the beat into an entirely new beat altogether. It's very Erykah Badu "Certainly" of him. Nevertheless, it's a hot track! Rating: 4/5

06 - Damn Girl - The funeral/haunted house organ chords that he has playing on the instrumental does not work for this song. Additionally, you can barely hear what he's saying because he sounds like he was too close to the mic. Lyrically, this song is nothing you haven't heard before. "There's something about the way you do the things you do when you do those things." He's whining on the 1st half chorus due to the throaty falsetto he uses. However, the rap is HOT on top of that old school, mid-70's vibe this song has going on! Not the strongest track, but I've heard worse from him on "Justified". Rating: 3/5

07 - Summer Love (Set The Mood) >Prelude< - He's doing the dang thing. That's all I can say. Rating: 4/5

08 - Losing My Way - Wow, Justin. He is really bringing the heat! He's interpreting lyrics and his vocals are on point and the arrangement is flawless. This song is a tad melancholy. He is truly dedicated to his craft, based on the way he's interpreting this lyric. The depression, helplessness, and hopelessness conveyed in this lyric and his interpretation is almost heartbreaking. Put this on after or before P!nk's "Just Like A Pill" and wow... Rating: 4/5

09 - (Another Song) All Over Again - The real, raw, vulnerability that he displays on this song wowed the heck out of me. I couldn't help but yelling, "SANG JUSTIN!" He actually brought unexpected tears to my eye with this song. That might be because I can really relate to this song, but his delivery is not at all shabby. He could teach these youngin's out here today singing a thing or two with a cut like this SANG JUSTIN! I knew Justin could sing, but I did not know he could SANG. Rating: 5/5

10 - Pose (featuring Snoop Dog) - I'm really enjoying this playful side of Justin. However, it kinda falls flat here lyrically and instrumentally (it is instrumentally clever at one particular point). This is the first filler track on this album. Rating: 2/5

11 - Until The End of Time - The boy can definitely sing. The simple harmonies on this song are classic and I'm feeling the nice, slow-groove thing he has going on here. Lyrically, this song is nothing spectacular, but it is heartfelt. The only qualm about this song is that the instrumentation is a tad lackluster, however once again, Justin more than makes up for that with his vocals. Good job, JT! Rating: 3.75/5


Overall Album Review:

This is the overall most strong album I've heard since "The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill." Every track here has the potential to be released and be a huge hit, aside from the last track. Would I buy it? Heck yes! Am I buying it? Heck yes! An album like this deserves to be a part of everyone's collection, not as a download, but as a purchased commodity. I really did not care for Justin Timberlake before this album; I knew of his hits and a few of his songs because my neice is a huge Justin fan. From this point, I will follow his career based on this album. Buy it.

Overall Album Rating: 4/5

Album Review: Monica - The Makings of Me

The Makings of Me

01 - Everytime Da Beat Drop - This song is so beneath her and is an insult to all true Monica fans. Uninspired. Trying to follow the latest hip hop musical trend. Disgusted. Rating: 1/5

02 - A Dozen Roses (You Remind Me) - WHAT THE HELL, MO?!! "Boy, you remind me of my Gucci shoes?" "You're butter on my shrimp; I'm Gladys Knight, you're my Pip?" What is the deal, Monica? Why are we doing a Beyonce and becoming entirely too materialistic? I feel insulted again. Is this is supposed to be 'hood Monica? I buy it in her personal life, but not on record. On record, it's an insult. Disgusted, again. Rating: 1/5

03 - Sideline Ho - I didn't have much hope for this song based on the title. What the heck is up with all the cursing just all of a sudden? I couldn't even listen to the rest of this track. Where the heck is Monica's head? I DO NOT BUY 'HOOD MONICA ON RECORD!!! This is disgusting. Rating: 1/5

04 - Why Her - Instrumentally, it's a tad reminiscent of "We Belong Together". It's nice groove, but lyrically it's just not her based on her past work. Vocally, it's nice and sweet. It's not groundbreaking. And if you heard it on the radio, you'd never be able to identify the song for the sake of conversation or who sang it. It's largely forgettable. She's clearly trying to be mainstream hip-hop now and she needs not. Sigh. Rating: 2/5

05 - Hell No (Leave Home) - Forgettable. Uninspired. Twista saved this song. Will I listen to this again? Hell no. Rating: 1/5

06 - Doin' Me Right - Next. Rating: 1/5

07 - Raw - Blah. Rating: 1/5

08 - My Everything - Finally, 7 tracks later, the Monica I first came to know makes a guest appearance on this album. I can easily see this being a part of a "For You I Will" medley. The instrumentation could be better and the song ended way too soon, but it is her strongest effort on the album thus far. Rating: 3/5

09 - Gotta Move On - You know, Missy Elliott is irking my nerves with her song intros--"New Monica s**t! Yup! Yes!" Shut up! Again, this is a return to the Monica I knew and fell in love with! Lyrically, it's juvenile and simplistic. Instrumentally, it's hugely forgettable, but Monica somehow salvages the song. Good job, Monica. Rating: 3/5

10 - Getaway - The most intimate, single most strong track on this entire project! This song is genious! She sings it with such vulnerability and conviction that you feel the pain. Great job vocally, instrumentally, and lyrically! Do the thing, Monica! Rating: 4/5

Overall Album Rating:


This album is supposed to establish street cred for Monica, something she quite clearly has based on her Vibe Magazine article. Nevertheless, if you download tracks 8-10, you'll have the strongest tracks (and the only one's worth hearing) on the album. This was her weakest effort EVER and I'm hugely disappointed as a Monica fan from the first CD.

Rating: 1.75/5

Album Review: Tamia - Between Friends

Between Friends

1- The Way I Love You - What a way to open the album--a killer track. It's mellow but it works! This girl can take a dull, nothing special lyric and song and make it magic. Nice job, Tamia. Rating: 3.5/5

2 - Happy - There's something very Brandy about this track, but she does much more with this track than Brandy could ever dream to do. The vocals on this song are excellent; however, they get lost upon the instrumentation. Lyrically, this is not the best, but then again, they're not altogether bad or contrived--it's a typical Darkchild track. UPDATE: Okay, I just changed my rating and got sold on the last part of the track! She brings in her daughter and she and her child sing. It's so candid, real, and cute, especially when she asks Tamia to sing, "Pop Quiz from 2005" (aka "Stranger In My House"). Rating: 3.75/5

3 - Almost - This is the answer to "Stranger In My House" in every way. It's a nice head bopping groove, with a great vocal and lyric. The little rap "overture" is unnecessary and hinders what could have been an overall perfect track--it's a speed bump, if you will. Did I say she sang the heck out of it? Rating: 4.75/5

4- Too Grown For That - Your typical Darkchild track. In fact, you can take the following tracks, put them in a blender and get this song (songs listed in order of importance): "Everytime the Beat Drop" (Monica), "You Don't Know" (Kierra "KiKi" Sheard), "If I Told You That" (Whitney), and "The Boy Is Mine" (Brandy and Monica) and viola you have this track. Rating: 2.75/5

5 - Me - Okay, anyone who knows me knows that I'm a ballad guy, and this is an amazing ballad! The vocals are clear, pristine, and heartfelt! Everything about this song is right--the instrumentation, the vocals, the lyrics, the background vocals. Rating: 5/5

6 - Can't Get Enough - Everything about this song is beneath her--the lyrics, the instrumentation, the vocal interpretation. It was so reminiscent of Ciara (vocally--you can really tell the producer made her sing it the way she did) and lyrically akin to something that should have been on Monica's new CD. It's not a bad song, though. It's simply beneath her talent. Rating: 3/5

7 - Daydreaming - Another head bopper, and a strong one at that. This song has a real 70s vibe to it, and it works for it. Lyrically, it's not masterpiece, but it somehow makes you smile (probably because this is how I treat a woman in a relationship). Nice track. Rating: 3.75/5

8 - Sitting on the Job - The live acoustic feel here is great! And she sings the heck out of it, with fire and conviction! This song is great. Another head bopper! This will definitely be on repeat! Rating: 3.75/5

9 - Last First Kiss - She had me from the first five words, "When it comes to you..." What happened to music like this on the radio? Tamia's bringing R&B/Soul back and she's doing a great job of it! This is Tamia's answer to "Oh Yes" (Whitney) and it's brilliantly sung and interpreted. Excellent! Rating: 4/5

10 - Why Can't It Be - Yet another head bopper. She sings this so sweetly, but lyrics are horribly overused--"Why can't it be that you and me could be all that all that I'm thinking about and all I'm dreaming of?" This song is nothing special, but it is listenable. Rating: 2.75/5

11 - When A Woman - She better sing!!!!! That's all I'll say. She better SAAAAAAAANGGG!!! Rating: 4.75/5

12 - Become Us - This track is 1990s meets 2006 and it somehow works brilliantly. Tamia sings the living daylights out of this song!!! You're in for a treat at the end of the song, though--hilarious! Rating: 3.75/5

13 - Have To Go Through It (featuring Eric Benet) - While the lyrics are a tad cliched, the vocals more than make up for it. They are singing this. The harmonies, while basic, work for this song. The instrumentation is one of those that just make you bop your head and you're unaware that you're doing it. Good job, Tamia and Eric! Rating: 4.75/5

14 - Protect My Heart - This is very Lauryn Hill of her vocally and instrumentally. It's a nice track; not extraordinary. Rating: 3/5

15 - Love and I - I'm loving the way she sings this--it's so sweet and convincing at the same time. The instrumentation is heartbreakingly beautiful; the piano and strings only accompaniment really pulses this song forward. One of the best songs I've heard in a while. But I must warn you--if you've recently broken up with someone, this is not the song to listen to. Rating: 5/5


Overall Album Review:

This album and Justin Timberlake's album are probably the two strongest albums I've heard all year. Justin might have thought he brought sexy back, but I'm sure Tamia's brought good, solid R&B/Soul back and I'm so estatic about it. The girl can definitely SAAANG and she can definitely interpret a lyric. This entire album is listenable in one sitting. Yes, she does a few weak tracks, but even the weak tracks are much stronger and solid than half of the crap you hear on radio now.

Would I recommend this album? Most definitely!

Overall Album Rating: 4/5

Album Review: Ciara - The Evolution

The Evolution

 1 - That's Right - I was expecting Missy to come in at any time and say, "I've got a cute face, chubby waist, thick legs, in shape, rump shaking both ways, make you do a double take..." This track is crazy danceable. Lyrically, blah. Instrumentally, on point! Vocally, nothing special. Rating: 3.5/5

2 - Like A Boy - Instrumentally, it sounds like an update of Monica's "Street Symphony". It's a head bopper most definitely; danceable, even. Lyrically, it's blah. Vocally, it's nothing spectacular. But there is something about this track that makes me adore it. Rating: 3.5/5

3 - Interlude - Not gonna rate any of the interludes--not worth the time.

4 - Promise - Addictive, addictive, addictive, and a guilty pleasure. It's so catchy in every single way--even lyrically, even though they are beyond cheesy. It reminds me of a Destiny's Child track, though which is probably why I like it so much. Rating: 3.75/5

5 - I Proceed - At this point, every track is danceable, but all sound the exact same with that thumping bass line and those oh-so-Timbaland beats. Nothing special. Rating: 2/5

6 - Can't Leave 'Em (featuring 50 Cent) - This samples some early 90s tune I can't put my finger on. This track bores me. Ciara has no depth as a vocalist, let alone trying to interpret a vocal. Anyone could have recorded this song, and it probably would have been better if someone else did. Rating: 2/5

7 - C.R.U.S.H. - Danceable, of course. A rehash of "1, 2 Step" instrumentally. I'm not even gonna try to review the vocals--she attempts the Aaliyah sweet but potent vocals, but falls terribly flat. Aaliyah actually could sing. And what does CRUSH stand for, you ask? Compliments Rumors they make up U put a smile on my face Sexiness and Have you (gotta have you). Nevertheless, very danceable. Rating: 3/5

8 - My Love - I'm sorry, half way through this track I zoned out and my mind went 12 different places. In other words, this was not the most interesting of tracks. It bored me. It has a nice, mid-tempo groove but her voice is slightly annoying. You can turn on the radio to any urban station and hear 20 songs from both men and women just like this one. Rating: 2.75/5

9 - Interlude - Not gonna rate any of the interludes--not worth the time.

10 - Make It Last Forever - This is probably the most obvious and blatant uncreative use of a sample that I've ever encountered--ever! "It takes two to make a thing go right; it takes two to make it out of sight"--it begins sampling this track and it loops in the background incessantly. There is no salvaging this travesty of a track, even though it's danceable; however, the blantant sample trumphs the danceability. And let's not forget the, "...I'm internationally known and I'm known to rock the microphone" she does. Darkchild--get it together, loser. Rating: 1.5/5

11 - Bang It Up - Sounds like this belongs in a dance movie and rightfully so! I don't know how this track wouldn't get anyone to the dance floor. It doesn't need a remix. (As I'm typing this, it's so danceable that I'm grooving in my office chair). Lyrically and vocally it's a dud. Good dance track! Rating: 3.5/5

12 - Get Up (featuring Chamillionaire) - I never could get into this song when it was huge and on the radio. Still can't; however, it's danceable and tolerable. There's nothing spectacular about the track except for the instrumental, and then again, that's not spectacular--good, but not spectacular. Rating: 3/5

13 - Interlude - Not gonna rate any of the interludes--not worth the time.

14 - Get In, Fit In - This is the second coming of 1, 2 Step instrumentally and even in the syncopated way she sings the verses. She's not an amazing vocalist by anyone's standards and the chorus is--well, "Da da da da da, da da da da da." Reminds me of that old Crystal Waters song that has a chorus, "Yabba dabba dee, yabba dabba doo..." The chorus is annoying as heck, but the track is too danceable to sit still. Rating: 2.75/5

15 - Interlude - Not gonna rate any of the interludes--not worth the time.

16 - So Hard - Could tell from the instrumental that this was gonna be a dud and I was right. The best way to describe this track is like this: imagine that you're cleaning up on a Saturday afternoon and you have a CD in but you're not really listening to it because all of the good songs have passed, but you continue listening to the CD because you need to finish cleaning up. This is that track that you are half-listening to and simply tolerating. Rating: 2/5

17 - I'm Just Me - She's trying to rely on her vocals here, but comes off flat in more ways than one. This track would have worked for Aaliyah, but it dies a slow, painful, agonizing death for Ciara. She really can't sing, but she tries to make good music. Rating: 2/5

18 - I Found Myself - What is the fad with her talking at the beginning of every track? This track was a mistake in every way. First, the lyrics are a rehash of Destiny's Child's "Sweet Sixteen." So is the instrumental for that matter. Finally, she tries to rely on her vocals to uphold the track and she comes off whiny and contrived a la Britney Spears "Not A Girl, Not Yet A Woman." Rating: 1.75/5

Overall Album Review:

Nothing special and I don't plan on buying it. However, if you love to dance, this album is the album for you! It will have you on your feet for the majority of it. She has some strong tracks, but lyrically and vocally she falls just short of anything. It's probably a stronger effort than Janet's "20 Y.O." but that doesn't say much. I left this album asking, "Where's all the good music gone?!" What evolution Ciara?

Overall Album Rating: 2.75/5

Album Review: Fantasia (Self-Titled)

Fantasia

Fantasia

01 - Hood Boy (featuring Big Boi) - This is an updated version of Beyonce's "Work It Out" and it really works for this song. The old school 70s vibe really is the driving force that keeps this song pulsing forward. Tasia's voice is a little raw, gospel-tinged, and fiery on this track and that actually adds an air of authenticity to the subject matter of this song. Lyrically, this song is no gem. Vocally and instrumentally, it works on so many different levels. This track brings the heat. Rating: 3.5/5

02 - When I See You - The deep, sultry harmonies work magnificiently on this song. This girl most definitely has soul, but it's obviously now her job to learn how to tame that soul. She really embellished this song with a bunch of extra riffs and runs that actually ended up taking away from the song, mainly because she failed to interpret the song. On a side note, she needs to take care of her instrument--she sounds as if (in some of her adlibs) that she's developing vocal nodules as she sounds like she's singing with a mouth full of ice or candy. Nevertheless, it was a good track. Rating: 3/5

03 - I Nominate U - Unfortunately, there's absolutely nothing special about this track. In fact, you can turn on the radio to any R&B station and hear at least 10 songs that are exactly this instrumentally, lyrically, and vocally. I was a tad surprised to hear Tasia singing lyrics like this--a tad risque ("let me watch you perform"; "the only sound you'll hear me make is 'oooooh'"; "can a brotha put that thang down"; "he keeps it jumpin'"). Sadly, nothing special. Rating: 2.75/5

04 - Baby Makin' Hips - I did not want to like this track, but the chorus is infectious as all get out! Instrumentally, it is very reminiscent of Mary J. Blige's, "All That I Can Say." Lyrically, when you can understand what she's saying, nothing special. But my expectations were not high going into this track by any stretch of the imagination. While I don't see this song getting released formally, with a nice remix, I see this being a huge club success. Nice job, Tasia. Rating: 3/5

05 - Not the Way That I Do - Wow, this sounds like a carbon copy of Kierra "KiKi" Sheard's "Say Yes" from her latest album in every way except for lyrically (of course not--KiKi is gospel). Where this track also diverges from Kiki's is the way in which the verses are sung--Kiki sings her lyrics gracefully, while Tasia comes off as very robotic and annoying. I will say that the hook is memorable. The neo-Rock & B instrumental is somewhat effective, but lyrically--let's just say whoever wrote this will be winning no songwriter of the year awards. Rating: 2.75/5

06 - Only One U - Instrumentally, sounds like an Ashanti or Toni Braxton reject. Again, this another track that you can hear on any R&B station at this exact moment. The saving grace of this song is the vocal performance, which is not particularly spectacular, but is delivered in only a way that Fantasia could make work. Lyrically, another dud. Rating: 3/5

07 - I Feel Beautiful - Lyrically, this is a direct ripoff of Destiny's Child's, "Through With Love." For some reason, the instrumental reminds me of a mix between TLC's "Unpretty" and Beyonce's current hit, "Irreplaceable." However, the vulnerability that she exudes in this song is something I haven't heard from Tasia since "Summertime" or "What Are You Doing The Rest of Your Life?" Vocally, it's a gem. It's for this very reason that this song should be the next release from the album. Rating: 4/5

08 - I'm Not that Type - I do not for the life of me understand why this did not make Ciara's album; it's totally Ciara. Tasia, however, brings a fire to the track of which Ciara could only dream. There's this sexy confidence that she pours into this track that makes it work. The message of the track is positive for her young fans--encouraging abstinence. I applaud her for that. But the track is nothing special. Rating: 3/5

09 - Uneligible - Okay, so I'm getting rusty on my old school music (hey, I'm only 23), but this samples an old school mid 70s track that I can't quite place (and it's driving me crazy!). Nevertheless, this is one of those tracks that make you unwillingly bop your head and do a lil' diddy in your seat. The way she sings the verses is seductive in a non-sexual way (if that makes any sense). This is a strong track, but it'd never make it at radio. It's almost a complete throwback to real music. Good job, Tasia. Rating: 4/5

10 - Two Weeks Notice - This is her answer to "Truth Is" and truth is, this track, while not extraordinary, does work on many levels. First, lyrically it's sure to be a woman's anthem. Second, instrumentally it grooves like an early 90's track but does not come off sounding dated. Third, the simple chorus harmony coupled with the fiery passionate lead vocal is amazing. Fourth, Tasia really lets it all hang out on this track (vocally) and I admire her for that. Great track. Rating: 4/5

11 - Surround U - Blah. Rating: 1.75/5

12 - Bore Me (Yawn) - The fast-paced, rushed way that she sings this song is the first thing that captures your attention. They cleverly worked that "yawn" in the track--it does not seem forced or even expected. It's a part of the song rather than a concept. This is whole track as whole is infectious. A definite R&B hit, IMO. Rating: 4.25/5

13 - Sunshine - This is an okay track, but nothing to write home about. A filler track, IMO. Rating: 2.75/5

14 - Bump What Ya Friends Say - This is a nice, mellow track that only Tasia could bring justice to. However, considering the mellow instrumentation, some of the lyrics seems a bit displaced--e.g., "...we may go through some sh*t...". This track is so Chaka Khan instrumentally and vocally. This track, however, is probably the gem of the album. It's nothing special, but at the same time, it is something special. It's oddly refreshing in today's music. Rating: 4.5/5


Overall Album Review:

I don't think Tasia has anything to worry about as far as the sophomore curse is concerned. However, this CD is sure to alienate many of her Idol supporters and fans because this CD is centrally R&B. Nevertheless, she has released a solid second effort. Tasia has not lost any of that passion, soul, or fire that she's come to be known for; however, as Jennifer Hudson said concerning Whitney (paraphrase) "there's a difference between being able to sing and knowing how to sing."

Fantasia can definitely sing; however, she needs to learn that each lyric does not deserve the exact same interpretation (this is something that Christina Aguilera also needs to learn). While there is a measure of passion in each song and lyric sung, sometimes it becomes a bit overwhelming, causing you to feel bombarded. As I said, it's a solid second effort and if you buy this, I can ensure that you will not be altogether disappointed. The album is not overwhelmingly original, but it does work on many levels in spite of that minor flaw.


Overall Album Rating: 3/5

Album Review: Katharine McPhee (Self Titled)

Katharine McPhee

 01 - Love Story - It has a nice old school vibe to it, but this song is better suited to Alicia Keys. In fact, during the instrumental, I began singing, "Let me tell you something, tell you how I feel, when he comes around, I get to feeling ill..." However, it is a throwback song. She doesn't deliver it with the fire and soul that a better singer could have, but it is catchy nevertheless. Rating: 3/5

02 - Over It - JoJo, anyone? This is a simple rehash of "Too Little, Too Late." This is her AC hit, though. Lyrically, it's in the same vein as Beyonce's "Irreplaceable" (albeit a less direct and harsh version). I'm simply not impressed. She has a problem with actually delivering a lyric convincingly. She sounds as if she's simply singing just because she can. There is no real connection to the lyric or instrumentation. Rating: 3/5

03 - Open Toes - If you're just barely listening, you'd swear you're listening to a less passionate Christina. Quite honestly, it sounds like a Christina reject. Vocally, it's nothing special, although the chorus is infectious. Instrumentally, it sounds like a track from Sonic the Hedgehog 2 on Sega (you remember the "casino" board). Lyrically, blah. Rating: 2.5/5

04 - Home - "Everyday, is so wonderful...then suddenly, it's hard to breathe." Everything about this song is a carbon copy of Christina's "Beautiful"--even the overall message that the song's attempting to send. She sounds eerily like Christina here, too. She has breath control problems when trying to support her notes. As the song progresses, it morphs from "Beautiful" to "The Voice Within" back to "Beautiful". If I wanted Christina, I would have popped in "Stripped". Rating: 3/5

05 - Not Ur Girl - Okay, now I'm convinced that Christina is actually the one singing. She definitely has Christina's tone and style on the generic runs and riffs. However, where she and Christina differs is here: Christina has always delivered on her songs; Katharine, on the other hand sounds very karaoke at points. She's not a bad singer though; she just has bad material. This is a track that they coulda kept. Rating: 2/5

06 - Each Other - Well all right, Kat! This is her R&B crossover hit! It's a wonderful song! Probably the strongest track on the album thus far. Instrumentally and vocally, the song is wonderful. But where oh where have all the good writers gone? Rating: 4.5/5

07 - Dangerous - This is early Kelly Clarkson music. This song, however, was (instrumentally) written for 1988. Lyrically, too for that matter ("I didn't see the missle that sank my love-ship"). Kat kinda gets lost in the music here, though. Good song, nevertheless. Rating: 3.5/5

08 - Ordinary World - Your standard first-time out female singer big Whitney-esque song--very cliched lyrics and typical overly dramatic instrumentation. However, I love big songs like this, and Katharine sang it without whining, which is a huge plus in my book. There wasn't a huge vocal moment in this song, but it was sang well overall. Rating: 4.5/5

09 - Do What You Do - It seems like all of her upbeat instrumental tracks sound arcade-ish (excluding Each Other). This is so contrived, though. "All the girls in the club wanna be me..."--it's so bubblegummy. Cheesier than Cheeze Whiz. I swear this song was left off of Christina's debut, though; it would fit right in on her debut album. Even the backing vocals sound as if Christina is singing. Rating: 3/5

10 - Better Off Alone - Reminiscent of Mariah's, "If It's Over," a song which I absolutely LOVE. I love the vulnerable way she sings this. This track she's actually come into her own and exited Christina territory--she found the voice within (insert grin), LOL. Good job, Kat! Rating: 4/5

11 - Neglected - Sure to be another hit. She sounds remarkably like her Idol sister Clarkson, and it works for this piece. Everything about this song works. It even has a Mariah "Close My Eyes" feel to it. In fact, it's going on repeat and straight to my mp3 player. She sings the heck out of it. Rating: 5/5

12 - Everywhere I Go - I knew from the first 10 words out of her mouth that this was going to my mp3 player and that this was also going on repeat! I'm loving the groove, the lyrics, and the way she delivers the song. There's a connection that she makes on so many different levels. Good job! Magnificent! Rating: 5/5

Overall Album Review:

Originally I was going to write that Katharine is a Christina and Kelly Clarkson hybrid; a Christina Clarkson if you will. Then I was going to quip that you shouldn't accept cheap imitations when the real thing is available. However, Kat finally found her voice and began connecting and I had to dismiss this altogether.

So, they're going to market her to the AC audience obviously and rightfully so. This is the genre in which her voice shines and she sings with some feeling and conviction (a problem I had with her on Idol). There is no heavy, big-vocaled, "All The Man I Need" (Whitney) meets "Just To Hold You Once Again" (Mariah) meets "Reflections" (Christina) meets "Up Against All Odds" (Tarralyn Ramsey) song on this album, but it suffices nonetheless. Lyrically, it will appeal to the 18-35 demographic. Instrumentally and stylistically, it has the unique opportunity to branch over into the urban market and pull listeners.

Would I buy this album? Probably not.  But is it worth a download? Sure is (be sure you don't burn it if you download it; listen to it, then get rid of it)! It delivers. She did a fine job her first time out. I just want her to get away from the Monica syndrome--being afraid to use your entire voice and carry the song instead of the song carrying the singer.

Overall Album Rating: 3.5/5

Album Review: Paris Bennett - Princess P

Princess P

01 - All Hail The Princess (Intro) - Catchy in a teenybopper kinda way. Instrumentally, it could get really old if the song were longer than it is. Rating: 3/5

02 - Ordinary Love - Instrumentally, this song is "Tell Me No" meets "So Emotional" (both Whitney Houston). This song has a huge rock and hip hop influence--sort of a hip rock. However, the vocals are lost amidst of all the instrumentation. Again, this song is good for the teenybopper crowd, and while catchy, gets old quickly. Rating: 3/5

03 - Dreamin' - Lyrically, it's a tad cheesy and materialistic. This is the typical Idol song: "keep on keeping on, dream big and it will come true no matter what anyone says." Where it differs from other songs of this type is that it's driven by a strong quick tempo groove, which is odd considering the lyrical content. Vocally, this song is nothing special. She again gets lost among all of the instrumentation. Rating: 2.5/5

04 - Daddy - Heartbreaking and bittersweet, lyrically! She sounds as if she's fighting back tears the entire time she's singing this. This is the hip hop version of P!nk's "Family Portrait" and Christina Aguilera's "Hurt." Vocally, it's heartbreaking. She delivers this with such passion and sincerity that you can tell that she knows, believes, and has experienced what she's singing about. Good job, Paris! Rating: 3.75/5

05 - Let Me Rap (featuring Kevin Covaias aka Chicken Little) - Shameless ploy to get more sales by featuring Kevin on a track. She figures, "Hey, if I feature him a track, I'll get some of his Idol fans to buy my album, too." The rap that Kevin does makes Vanilla Ice like a rap genius and legend. Glad this song is short. Rating: 1.75/5

06 - My Boyfriend's Back - Yes, it's *that* "My Boyfriend's Back." Very karaoke. Oddly danceable. Vocally, she put a little soul and grit in here while keeping it extremely bubblegum. It was...cute. Rating: 2.5/5

07 - Can't Control Myself - This is her answer to Katharine McPhee's "Over It" and it works. It has a very AC feel. This song is definitely her first number one single if properly marketed. The harmonies in the chorus are tight, she doesn't bring too much soul to the song that it becomes too urban, but she brings just enough so that it can be marketed to urban radio, AC, and pop radio alike. The strongest track so far. Rating: 4.25/5

08 - Duet (featuring J. Isaac) - This is the modern day version of Luther and Cheryl Lynn's "If This World Were Mine." If Luther and Cheryl were the parents, Paris and J. Isaac are definitely the children. Wouldn't change one thing about this song. They both deliver this song with a passion that I often hear missing in today's R&B. Rating: 5/5

09 - I'm So Hot (interlude) - Skip this. Rating: not good enough to rate.

10 - I'm So Hot - Okay, don't let the interlude fool you! She just gave Beyonce a run for her money in the hot club dance track! If you enjoy "Lost Yo Mind," then you'll LOVE this song just as much. The chorus is a tad noisy, but the verses more than make up for that. She delivers this with such fire and attitude! Get it, Paris! Rating: 4/5

11 - Get Bizzy - Okay, this is definitely a Ciara reject. Sounds like it dropped right off of "The Evolution." However, this song is definitely a big hit already! Hugely danceable and incredibly sassy. I love it. This is definitely a club hit that will make everyone run to the dance floor. You've officially been princessed. Rating: 4/5

12 - Caught Up - Very 80's meets the new millennium instrumentally (it's sampling some 80s song that I can't quite put my finger on!). The girl can definitely sing. This would definitely be her second single to release to pop radio as it is very bubblegum. Rating: 3/5

13 - B-Bye - Every album needs it's filler track. This is it. If you have a skip button, use it. Rating: 1.75/5

14 - Burnt Up - For some reason this song reminds me of Michael Jackson's, "Thriller." I don't know why as it's nothing like it, but it's oddly reminiscent. Good song, very danceable, and lyrically cliched. However, Princess P brings the heat to the vocal which I'm loving. Rating: 3/5

15 - I Will (featuring James Grear and Company) - Her first ballad, beautifully sung. Instrumentally, it's an update on Xscape's, "The Arms of the One Who Loves You" and and it works on so many different levels for this song. Paris takes it to church with this song and, while it's lyrically your typical inspirational ballad, it works. The only problem is that this song ends entirely too soon. Rating: 4.75/5

16 - Best Friends (featuring Any Nesby and Jamecia Bennett) - It has that real heavy gospel feel and they sing the heck out of it. This is what Whitney and company should have done instead of "Family First." Excellent! Rating: 5/5

Overall Album Review:

Four words: All hail the Princess! She earned her title with this release. She definitely leads the pack of her peers hands down. Typically, Idols (and Idol rejects) release a dull and lackluster first album, but this is the first post-Idol album that I've heard that is a good listen minus a few little flubs here and there. Princess P came with the heat for this project! I can only hope they don't drop the ball on this album.

Properly promoted, this album can be a huge hit. She has so many singles on this album and the girl definitely has the pipes to carry these songs over live. I highly recommend getting this album! It's one of the better albums that I've heard in a while.

Overall Album Rating: 3.75/5

Album Review: Deborah Cox - Destination Moon

Destination Moon

01 - Destination Moon - Very jazzy and and very 50's influenced. Very reminiscent of "I've Got Rythym." Not very much I can say about this, but it was decent. Have no original or past version to compare it to. Rating: 3/5

02 - What A Difference A Day Made - Okay, I'm now guessing that this is a period piece (the album as a whole). Not my cup of tea, but it's very reminiscent of "Alfie" (Dionne Warwick), which, oddly enough, is my cup of tea. Rating: 3/5

03 - Misery - I love this new rawness and slight rasp to her voice; it gives it that edge it was missing. She sings this beautifully and the instrumentation is lovely. I'm really enjoying this side of Deborah; very vulnerable yet more heartfelt than I've ever heard her. Rating: 3.5/5

04 - Baby, You've Got What It Takes - She brings a very Kim Burrell-styled vocal to this song in every way and I'm loving it! Again, it's not my type of music but I can appreciate it vocally. It's a solid vocal and I'm not at all displeased. She's interpreting the lyric. Rating: 3/5

05 - This Bitter Earth - Heartbreaking. She delivers this with such passion and fire. Wow, especially considering Dinah Washington's take on this song. While it's not Dinah's, it definitely is no slouch. I didn't know Deborah had all of this in her. Rating: 4/5

06 - Squeeze Me - I love this old Fats Waller tune! I loved it even more when I saw Armelia McQueen perform it in "Ain't Misbehavin'." By changing the melodic structure of the song, it lost it's innocent and sex kitten vibe. The vocal she delivers is far too powerful and surprisingly contrived. Rating: 2/5

07 - New Blowtop Blues - She didn't take her time with this lyric. The heartbreak and despair that's normally exhibited in "I've got bad news baby, and you're the first to know" is completely missing. There was no grit or soul there to deliver the lyric. She does sing it brilliantly, but that's not enough for this song, especially considering the lyrical content. Rating: 3.5/5 (Adjusted Rating: 2.5/5)

08 - Blue Skies - She delievers a powerfully passionate vocal here beginning. She seems to loose her footing when the song changes tempo. She does much better with these period pieces when they're slow. In the uptempos, she looses the message of the lyric. The second half the song was supposed to be bright and chipper, but instead it's kind of flat. The first half, however, is brilliant. Rating: 3/5

09 - I Don't Hurt Anymore - The song was a tad too slow and I constantly compared it to Mandisa Hundley's performance of the song. Mandisa's version was far superior and it sounds as if Deborah's voice was about to go out on her during this song. Still, she doesn't sing it badly, just not as brilliantly as Mandisa. Rating: 3/5

10 - Smoke Gets In Your Eyes - Just brilliant. Rating: 4.75/5

11 - September In The Rain - She sings this beautifully. Another strong track. Rating: 4/5

12 - Look To The Rainbow - She brought tears to my eyes with this one. Wow. Rating: 5/5

Overall Album Review:

Okay, I would recommend this album to anyone who is a fan of Burt Bacarach type melodies (i.e., the type of music that young Dionne Warwick was known for). She sings most tracks as if she lived the lyric. She sometimes looses her footings on the uptempo tracks, but she more than suffices with her interpretation of the lyrics in the slow tracks. This is a brilliant album, but it's not going to be everyone's cup of tea. This is not the Deborah of "Nobody's Supposed to Be Here" with the over-instrumentation and the bombastic vocals. This is a much more subdued Deborah wrapping her voice around lyric, giving every lyric a life of it's own. It's a great album, but I say to the fans of Deborah, download it to see if you like this type of music. I can't stress enough, however, how absolutely wonderful this album is!

Overall Album Rating: 3.75/5

Album Review: Kelly Rowland - Ms. Kelly

Ms. Kelly

01 - Like This (featuring Eve) - I'll be honest: I did not like this song in the least at first. However, because she came from the group of my girls (Destiny's Child), I decided to give it a chance. This song is definitely a grower and Eve definitely saves the song. The video also makes this song more than what it actually is (because Kelly is one fine sista and she can sing). Instrumentally and lyrically, it's nothing special, but it is catchy. Rating: 3/5

02 - Come Back - Dance floor material, and the beat is hot. The vocal is fire, not because it's unique (which it certainly isn't) but because Kelly brings some fire to it; she has that sass necessary to carry a very nothing special and quite contrived lyric. This track, however, is interesting: it could end up as a filler track, but with the right remix this song could be huge. Rating: 3/5

03 - Ghetto (featuring Snoop Dogg) - First, Snoop is in the way. Second, this lyric is and the interpretation thereof is completely Beyonce. I tried my best to avoid comparing her to cousin Bey, but this one you could clearly hear Beyonce singing. Third, I understand what Kelly is trying to do--do the EXACT OPPOSITE music that Beyonce does and find success. So, she stays in this urban R&B vibe when she's capable of so much more vocally and in her delivery. Rating: 2.75/5

04 - Put It In - Highly danceable, but lyrically it's no where near a masterpiece. Kelly has the fire to deliver a vocal like this and, while this sounds like everything else on the radio right now, it's strangely refreshing to hear it from someone who can actually sing. Sometimes her vocals are lost amongst the instrumentation (which is a tad loud and annoying at times) but this is definitely a very decent track. Rating: 3/5

05 - Flashback - The instrumentation is a throwback to the middle 80's with the robotic sounding synthesizers and it actually distracts from everything else going on the song. Lyrically, it's in the same vein as Fantasia's "Truth Is" from her debut. Vocally, I don't know what's going on; it's a very lazy and nothing special vocal. She's capable of so much more vocally, especially after seeing her do "Bad Habit" from "Destiny Fulfilled" live. Rating: 3/5

06 - Every Thought Is You - Instrumentally, it's a direct ripoff of Fantasia's current single, "When I See You" with interpolations of cousin Bey's "Me, Myself, and I" vocally. In fact, the chorus actually uses the phrase, "when I see you." It samples some 70's song that I can't quite put my finger on, too. This is probably the best track so far. Everything about the song works, and if she were smart, this would be her next single. Rating: 3.5/5

07 - The Show (featuring Tank) - Nice slow groove R&B, very much in the vein of her contemporary Brandy, especially on "Never Say N.E.V.E.R." and "Full Moon." The song is probably a little longer than it needs to be, but the vocals are excellent and the instrumentation is quite nice. I forgot Tank could sing! Rating: 3.5/5

08 - Interlude - Why this is an interlude is COMPLETELY BEYOND ME! The piano track, her delivery, the interpretation are all EXACTLY what I've been expecting and exactly what this album needs! This is one interlude that I would actually place on repeat. It's simply not long enough. Rating: 5/5

09 - Still In Love With My Ex - This is her answer to Tarralyn Ramsey's "Remedy," the way she delivers it vocally. While it's not as strong a vocal as Tarralyn's it's definitely delievered the same way. The album needs more tracks like this; while the lyric isn't strong, her interpretation there of more than compensates for that. Rating: 3.25

10 - Love - Good track. Her delivery of the vocal is hot! Kelly is doing some serious sanging on this track! I love it. Rating: 4/5

11 - Better Without You -The song is a nice mid-tempo groove, quipping, "Happy without you; better without you; loving without you." Kelly delivers a great vocal. This track is a grower as well, but it's a good track once you get past how fragile it begins and how repetitive it is. Rating: 3/5

12 - This Is Love - This is a wedding song if I've ever heard one and Kelly delivers a soulful interpretation of these cliched lyrics. The acoustic guitar the accompanies her is just enough to be effective. Also, the run from 4:01-4:03 is very Whitney-like. I've rewound it so many times, but that's actually Whitney's run and tone on the run. Good job, Kelly! Rating: 4.25/5

13 - Gotsa Go (featuring Da Brat) - While this song is misplaced in the tracklisting, I can understand why; it was recorded over a year and a half ago, way back when her album was scheduled to be released before Beyonce's. I heard it then and decided that this song's saving grace is Da Brat. Without Da Brat this song falls completely apart. In fact, when Da Brat isn't rapping, you're waiting for her to come back in to add more life to the song. Rating: 3/5

Overall Album Review:

The album itself is not bad, but I believe much of the album was written around staying out of the same arena as Beyonce so that she doesn't have to compete with Beyonce. That's a shame; the urban, R&B Kelly does not convince me. She's far more fierce in the pop/R&B arena than in the urban/hip-hop/R&B arena. The second half of the album is far better than the the first. This is not a stronger album than Paris Bennett's, but it is not a bad album by a long shot. I quite enjoyed the majority of it.

Overall Rating: 3/5

Album Review: Rihanna - Good Girl Gone Bad

Rihanna - Good Girl Gone Bad

01 - Umbrella (featuring Jay-Z) - I made an oath to myself: "never like Rihanna." I, however, could not resist this song! In fact, it's been on repeat for weeks now. Everything about it is right--well, except for the incessant repeating of "eh, eh, eh, eh". Lyrically, it's no masterpiece and, for that matter, neither is it vocally. However, the instrumentation is what makes this song pulse forward. Rating: 4/5

02 - Push Up On Me - Everyone is taking a page from Ciara's dance handbook. The dance beat makes song! So very catchy, this song is! Instrumentally, the synthesizer and clap track are straight out of the eighties. If she's smart, this would be her next single! Rating: 4/5

03 - Don't Stop The Music - This should be titled, "Don't Stop the HOUSE Music." This song is set, fit, and ready for the club, remix free. Highly danceable and very catchy. Rating: 3.5/5

04 - Breakin' Dishes - Okay, this is her "Ring The Alarm" (Beyonce) but it's far catchier and much more danceable than "Ring The Alarm." Vocally, this chick is nothing to write home about, and whoever wrote for this album could stand to not quit their day job, but the instrumentalists and producers are working wonders for her. This is actually a decent track. Rating: 3.5/5

05 - Shut Up And Drive - Okay, with the guitar I was half expecting Maroon 5 to come on in! She's overpowered by the background and she falls into oblivion. It sounds like a remake, but I can't remember if it is or not. Nevertheless, it's a filler track. Rating: 2/5

06 - Hate That I Love You (featuring Ne-Yo) - Lyrically, it's no gem. Instrumentally, it's the second coming of "Irreplaceable" (Beyonce). Vocally, Ne-yo is clearly the superior vocalist on the song. The song itself is nothing special. Bland and lifeless. Rating: 2/5

07 - Say It - Another filler track. Rating: 1.5/5

08 - Sell Me Candy - Why can I hear Beyonce all over this track? Probably because of songs like "Apple Pie a la Mode" and lines like, "I'ma be like a Jolly Rancher that you get from the corner store." Where as it works for Beyonce, it falls flat here. Her weak voice is clearly displayed here as the music overpowers it at every turn. It would be a decent song on a superior singer. Rating: 2.5/5

09 - Lemme Get That - Danceable in a "Oops, Oh My" (Tweet) kinda way. The talk-singing that she does here actually works for the song. Lyrically, again it's blah and materialistic. This, however, is sure to be a club anthem. Rating: 3/5

10 - Rehab - I wasn't looking forward to her trying to do any real singing after the sham she made of "Unfaithful." Her attempts at AC ballads never work for me. In my opinion, AC ballads require some type of a voice and she has none. This song simply bored me. Rating: 2/5

11 - Question Existing - This song is not for a PG-13 crowd. It's sultry and sexy and surprisingly enough, Rihanna brings it on this song. There are places, however, where it falls flat. The verses and her delivery on the verses are probably the strongest parts of the song. It has a very "Oh Yes" (Whitney Houston) feel to it. Rating: 3/5

12 - Good Girl Gone Bad - Catchy, but not catchy enough to be the title track. Again, this is in the same vein as "Irreplaceable" (Beyonce) instrumentally. Lyrically, it's a tad contrived. Her delivery is not convincing, but it's somehow catchy and listenable. Rating: 2.75/5

Overall Album Review:

She definitely has problems with pitch and sustaining notes. She goes flat quite often or she'll sing a note right under the one she's supposed to be singing. To anyone with a musical ear, it drives you nuts! To others, you may not even hear it. The first half of the album is the strongest part. You'd be much better off downloading the first few tracks and leaving the rest alone. It's not a bad album, but it is not something I can see playing regularly.

Overall Album Rating: 3/5

Come One, Come All

First, let me introduce myself.

I'm Larry, your album reviewing genuis.  Call me a music connoisseur of sorts.  I love good music and I love good singers.  I love good songs.  I've been doing what I call "exhaustive, song-by-song reviews" for some time now and that's what you'll come to know me for.  I have the habit of going through a new album by an artist that peaks my interest and reviewing each song one by one, then at the end doing a total album review.

I just realized that a lot of people depend on my reviews and enjoy my opinion on music.  I have a very eclectic music taste, but I generally only review albums by artists that I like or that intrigue me for some reason.  That being said, I'm not above you submitting some albums you'd like to see reviewed. Keep in mind, I don't say what I say in my reviews to be hurtful 
or nasty; I just say what I hear and what I feel.

That being said, I'm gonna start off by posting some back reviews of albums I've already reviewed.  More new reviews coming very soon.

~ Larry.