Sound Off - Jazmine Sullivan: Fearless

The latest albums making noise

Imagine Mary J. Blige’s What’s the 411? with slicker production, equivalent passion, and raw emotion accented with bits of humor and the fantasy materializes into Jazmine Sullivan’s Fearless. Her freshman effort is an encompassing disc that traverses myriad R&B styles and themes, while engaging listeners with amusing wordplay.

Playing up these traits to the fullest is “Switch,” an upbeat, Motown-era-girl-group jam where Jazmine asks her date if she can “dine with your best friend.” Sullivan politely offers her girlfriend as a substitute on this double date that better resembles a game of musical chairs. “One Night Stand” continues the girl group playfulness as Sullivan croons about a one-night stand gone wrong (she caught feelings, breaking rule No. 1. But the bigger offense of the tryst may be ignoring her lover’s philandering ways on “Live a Lie.”).

On the serious tip, “Call Me Guilty” gets inside the mind of a victim of domestic violence. Committed to ending the struggle, the lyrics tell the story of a woman who will either die or end up in jail. A seemingly unfair trade-off, represented by the exchange with a police officer who yells, “You have the right to remain silent,” to which she responds, “No, I have the right to stay alive.”

Continuing in the tradition of destroying cars, à la Carrie Underwood’s “Before He Cheats,” is “Bust Your Windows.” The scorned woman gets her revenge over a hand-clap-driven ditty and lines such as, “You’ll probably say that it was juvenile, but I think that I deserve to smile.” Equally emotional is “Lions, Tigers & Bears,” a symphonic questioning and rebuke of love. “Fear” lets the piano take the lead as Jazmine lists common excuses we make when it comes to facing thing we’re scared of before declaring, “You ain’t human without fear.”

Equally challenging, engaging and fun, Fearless is a dynamic debut album from rising star Jazmine Sullivan. Given all of those qualities, it’s hard to not be anxious for the follow-up.

That’s My Jam’s Rating:
5. Get It Now
4. Get It On Sale
3. Get It As a Gift
2. Get It To a CD Exchange Store
1. Don’t Get It At All

Track List
1. “Bust Your Windows”
2. “Need U Bad” featuring Missy Elliott
3. “My Foolish Heart”
4. “Lions, Tigers & Bears”
5. “Call Me Guilty”
6. “One Night Stand”
7. “After the Hurricane”
8. “Dream Big”
9. “Live a Lie”
10. “Fear”
11. “In Love with Another Man”
12. “Switch”

Sound Off - Jazmine Sullivan: Fearless

Sound Off - Darude: Label This!

The latest albums making noise

Darude is the guy behind the global club hit, “Sandstorm.” While the song is genius, it is, unfortunately, the closest many mainstream music listeners will ever get to familiarizing themselves with trance. This is sad because by limiting their exposure to dance and electronica, potential fans were likely deprived of the ear candy that was Darude’s sophomore disc, Rush.

Perhaps taking note of this, the mix master produced his third album with tracks that are simultaneously accessible, yet true enough to fill floors with trance devotees. The songs overlap instead of mix into one continuous track and are full of vocals. Individually, the songs do one of two things: embrace elements of the mash-up trend or utilize the best in rock vocal delivery, but each does so without sacrificing the best qualities of trance.

One of the former-style tracks is “I Ran (So Far Away).” The blazing, free-flowing guitar riffs provide plenty of energy for Blake Lewis, who perhaps would have won American Idol had he been allowed to do the kind of performance he gives on this track. He sounds at home on this trance groove, which is almost low on peaks and valleys, but engaging with its midsection hip-hop break.

“My Game” sounds like a foray into rock in its intro, but quickly embraces hollow synths coupled with a grimy rockstar vibe to create a lighter companion to the BodyRockers “I Like the Way You Move.”

Upon the first beat of the title track, listeners are transported back to the days of Darude’s worldwide smashes “Sandstorm” and “Feel the Beat.” Here, electro takes over as various genres of music are listed that may or may not apply to the song at hand, while the ever-present guitar shreds in the background.

“Good Grooves” features a robotic voice and cosmic sounds mixed with elements of funk on a cut more reminiscent of the sound from Rush. “Bad,” on the other hand, proudly declares a connection to Darude’s 2003 album with its distorted peaks and valleys, and a crescendo build that results in hollow, “lighter” trance that encourages dance floor attendance.

Though not as mainstream as After the Storm or as sonically intriguing as Rush, Label This! does provide a natural progression from the sound we’ve become familiar with from Darude. We just hope we don’t have to wait five more years for the next step in his evolution.

That’s My Jam’s Rating:
5. Get It Now
4. Get It On Sale
3. Get It As a Gift
2. Get It To a CD Exchange Store
1. Don’t Get It At All

Track List:
1. “My Game”
2. “Tell Me”
3. “I Ran (So Far Away)” with Blake Lewis
4. “Stars (Here With Me)” [Tech Mix]
5. “Good Grooves”
6. “In the Darkness” [Tech Mix]
7. “Bad”
8. “Label This!”
9. “Lost”
10. “For Those I Love”
11. “Dreams”
12. “In the Darkness” [Trance Mix]

Sound Off - Darude: Label This!

Sound Off - Robin Thicke: Something Else

The latest albums making noise

A few traits define Robin Thicke’s brand of blue-eyed soul. Listeners will find themselves transported to the breezy tropics with his melodies, be romanticized in every possible way with his lyrics and will be soothed by the upper range of his voice, which is prevalent on the songs compiled for his third disc, Something Else.

Thicke effortlessly accomplishes all three on the set’s opener, “You’re My Baby.” Here, his voice is appropriately delicate as he assures his lover he’ll scare away the “monsters in the closet” and provide her the security of a “blankie.”

More lyrically aggressive and forcefully delivered is “Sidestep,” which manages to both plea and command with the recurring “c’mon nows” delivered throughout his trademark “ooh-hoos.”

Continuing where S.O.S. Band’s “Take Your Time (Do It Right)” leaves off, “Something Else” is funk on the verge of disco with guitar riffs that would do the former proud. Depending on the interpretation, “something else” can be sexual in nature or a simple longing for a change of pace and scenery, but both achieve a happy ending on this jam.

Duality is present on another offering on Something Else, specifically “Shadow of Doubt.” Though full of “do-do-dos” and lines like “I wanna dance like I’m James Brown,” one can’t help but wonder if Thicke is speaking about his place as one of R&B’s few prominent white performers, and the internal and external struggles he’s faced because of it. (Remember that VIBE controversy from last year, when Thicke claimed that he was denied the cover because of his race? That month’s issue instead featured another controversy: a naked Ciara.)

Thicke is more overt on “Dreamworld,” a moody combination of piano and a lone drumbeat whose lines list the characteristics of his utopia. Especially important among them are things such as respect for his wife, actress Paula Patton, who is black, and the couple's freedom to “walk in Mississippi” without staring eyes. The fading end of the song again commands listeners and attempts to convince them to “dream on, let’s dream.”

Though upbeat in sections, Something Else is mostly mellow slow jams. It’s relaxing, at times thought provoking, but engaging and entertaining. Tracks such as “Magic” and “The Sweetest Love” have had their fair share of radio play, and rightfully so, and the only questionable inclusion on the album is Thicke’s duet with Lil Wayne, “Tie My Hands.” Something Else is the perfect mood-setter for romantic occasions, but would be required listening on a smooth jazz kind of Sunday.


That’s My Jam’s Rating:
5. Get It Now
4. Get It On Sale
3. Get It As a Gift
2. Get It To a CD Exchange Store
1. Don’t Get It At All

Track List:
1. “You’re My Baby”
2. “Sidestep”
3. “Magic”
4. “Ms. Harmony”
5. “Dreamworld”
6. “Loverman”
7. “Hard On My Love”
8. “The Sweetest Love”
9. “Something Else”
10. “Shadow of Doubt”
11. “Cry No More”
12. “Tie My Hands” with Lil Wayne

Sound Off - Robin Thicke: Something Else

Should-Be Singles? - Beyoncé featuring Missy Elliott: "Signs"

An in-depth discussion about why some songs should have received air time


THAT’S MY JAM: The nominee for our next Should-Be Single? is none other than Beyoncé’s "Signs" from 2003’s Dangerously in Love.
SU ZEE: “I was in love with a Sagittarius.” The opening lyrics for Beyoncé’s Dangerously in Love song “Signs” were, at the time, as close as an admission anyone was going get from B that she was involved with a famous Sagittarian ― one she later went on to marry ― in secret of course. It’s part of the reason why I enjoyed this song when I first heard it on Dangerously in Love. On her debut solo album, the notoriously private superstar was finally giving fans a little insight on the star she was reportedly romantically aligned with, then threw in her thoughts on the rest of the astrological chart just to keep things interesting, inclusive and, perhaps, deliberately evasive.

Evasive is what she seems to do best. But on this cut, she went directly into the catchy, smooth melody that’s at times ― and appropriately ― cosmic. I admit the only reason I can recite the zodiac signs in any kind of order is because of this song. And I have to say that her descriptions of each sign are dead-on. I think these qualities help make it a radio-ready track that would fare well on pop and R&B stations, and I can just imagine the treatment this would have received in the dance clubs.
Musically, “Signs’” melody plays out a little unevenly, which is not necessarily a bad thing, but not immediately catchy or memorable. Missy Elliott gets “featuring” credits, but she’s hardly noticeable on the track save for a lyrical “rewind” in the midst of a refrain in which Beyoncé wishes her lyrical lover was a Virgo ― the same sign as she. But she also gives shout-outs to Capricorn, Aquarius, Pisces, Aries, Taurus and “every sign from coast to coast.” Beyoncé’s need to appease begins to run thin, much like her vocals on the track. Unlike some of the album’s singles, “Crazy In Love,” “Naughty Girl” and even the title track sequel, “Dangerously In Love 2,” “Signs” seems to lack the passion and commitment Beyoncé so often delivers in her songs.

I think it’s great that Missy didn’t dominate the track. Not that there’s anything wrong with Missy, but sometimes, her appearances on cuts tend to overtake the featured artist. But when it comes to “Signs,” it has so many engaging elements. There’s the Creole chants during the bridge; the intriguing chorus that lists the different signs; and its overall memorable nature. It’s definitely a standout and easily recognizable for those who have the album. I think radio audiences would have appreciated hearing this on the airwaves. I can hear B’s hypnotic vocals now on all the quiet storm radio shows.
Overall, I think “Signs” is a good “filler” for the album, and I’m glad it made the cut. But like Beyoncé’s indecisiveness about her astrological preferences, this critiquing Virgo is also undecided on whether this song was radio-friendly enough to be released as a single. That said, the “signs” are pointing me to push pause on this track as a “Should-Be Single?” but I may hit “rewind” when I listen to it on the album again.


The Rating Scale:
►– Push Play
|| – Push Pause
■ – Push Stop

The Verdict:
Su Zee gives “Signs” a || while That’s My Jam gives it a ►.

Should-Be Singles? - Beyoncé featuring Missy Elliott: "Signs"

Sound Off - Ciara: Fantasy Ride

The latest albums making noise

A consistent hit-maker for three straight years, Ciara dominated radio and clubs with everything from her debut single, “Goodies,” to its crunk & B cousin, “That’s Right.” After a short break, CiCi returns with Fantasy Ride.

Though pushed back several months and missing the T-Pain collaboration, “Go Girl,” the album is full of fresh material and some that pays homage to hits from Ciara’s past.

The first such track is “Ciara To the Stage,” the set-opener on which the Princess of Crunk & B croons (and at one point raps) over a slow jam melody that’s reminiscent of The Evolution’s “Promise.” Here begins the first of many cuts in which Princess C brags about her sexual prowess, but few attempts are as effective as “Love Sex Magic” with Justin Timberlake, which is as hot with its video as it sounds on your iPod.

Ciara’s vocal experimentation on “High Price” features fellow ATL emissary, Ludacris. Rather than replicating their first collabo, “Oh!” Ciara belts operatic verses that are accented by a cartoonishly delivered chorus. The unusual demonstration is paired with Ludacris’ trademark ― and welcome ― flow, which single-handedly saves the song. (Guilty pleasure lyric: “Booty looks softer than a McDonald’s hamburger bun.” We can’t make this stuff up.)

It wouldn’t be a Ciara record without floor-fillers and “Work” is the best offering on Fantasy Ride. Here, CiCi again teams up with a partner from the past: the one and only Missy Elliott. Given the hotness of “1, 2 Step” and “Lose Control,” it’s no surprise that “Work,” which borders the edge between old-school hip-hop and a house jam, will be a party-starter this summer with its supportive chants and pounding commands.

Taking the alphabetic approach, “G Is for Girl (A-Z)” schools listeners that G stands for “girl-like gangsta” over a funky, electric guitar-infused hip-hop beat. Channeling funk of the Prince variety is “Lover’s Thing,” a duet with The-Dream about a two-way love that’s over, yet each participant desperately desires the other’s return.

More diverse than past discs, Fantasy Ride is an engaging ticket through the many eclectic genres found within today’s R&B. Though some songs focus intently on bump N Grind lyrics, there are more than enough uptempo tracks to not alienate Ciara’s fan base and plenty of experimental tracks to keep them intrigued.

That’s My Jam’s Rating:
5. Get It Now
4. Get It On Sale
3. Get It As a Gift
2. Get It To a CD Exchange Store
1. Don’t Get It At All

Track List:
1. “Ciara to the Stage”
2. “Love Sex Magic” with Justin Timberlake
3. “High Price” with Ludacris
4. “Turntables” with Chris Brown
5. “Like a Surgeon”
6. “Never Ever” with Young Jeezy
7. “Lover’s Thing” with The-Dream
8. “Work” with Missy Elliott
9. “Pucker Up”
10. “G Is for Girl (A-Z)
11. “Keep Dancin’ on Me”
12. “Tell Me What Your Name Is”
13. “I Don’t Remember”

Sound Off - Ciara: Fantasy Ride

Should-Be Singles? Johnny Gill – “Feels So Much Better”

An in-depth discussion about why some songs should have received airtime

THAT’S MY JAM: The record labels, as well as radio and video outlets, sometimes drop the ball on songs that would make the airwaves sound so much better. One such song is Johnny Gill’s "Feels So Much Better" from his self-titled 1990 album, which features background vocals by Karyn White and Pebbles. Guest contributor Su Zee agrees, and for many good reasons.
SU ZEE: From the minute you push play on Johnny Gill’s “Feels So Much Better,” you know you're in for something special. There’s a breezy summer evening feel to it; a relaxed keyboard instrumentation that I would describe as “new jack swing with curves” ― lyrically and melodically more sensitive than the songs that defined the urban music subgenre, but still new jack.

I can’t get over the music. Within the first few seconds, it seduces you with that powerful, rising violin riff that really gives the track an organic feel despite the presence of synthesizers.
Johnny Gill’s rich baritone vocals pour deliciously over the song’s instrumentation like warm butterscotch topping over vanilla ice cream. The harmonic interplay between Gill’s lead vocals and Karyn White and Pebbles’ background offerings is effortlessly seductive, evoking a feeling of excitable romantic comfort like the song’s title. The ladies’ cooing echoes both teases and satisfies, creating a compatible exchange with Gill’s lead vocals.

The exchange is beautiful! Given that the three had worked together on the new jack “Say A Prayer” from Pebbles’ Always album, this was a welcome addition to their catalog of collaborative work. Imagine if they had put both out as singles …
In releasing the song as a single, playing up the collaboration with Pebbles and Karyn White might have also worked well for Gill on the promotional front, with “Pebbs” and White holding their own as representatives of some of R&B’s leading ladies of the day.

This song is such a gem on an already flawless album. Given the success of the other singles released from Johnny Gill (1990), there’s no question this, too, would have shot up the charts and probably given Gill at least an R&B No. 1 and maybe even a pop top 10. It truly is “not entirely hip-hop-based” ’90s R&B at its best.
This song is warm and subtle, less provocative and less overt than Gill’s other single offerings from the album, “My, My, My,” “Wrap My Body Tight” and “Rub You the Right Way.” The lyrics harken back to true love songs where lyrics dealt with emotion rather than waterbed motion.

The Rating Scale:
► – Push Play
|| – Push Pause
■ – Push Stop

The Verdict:
That’s My Jam and Su Zee give “Feels So Much Better” an enthusiastic ►.

Should-Be Singles? Johnny Gill – “Feels So Much Better”

Sound Off – New Kids on the Block: The Block [Deluxe Edition]

The latest albums making noise

After being out of the musical spotlight for 14 years (save Jordan Knight’s and Joey McIntyre’s notable solo efforts), New Kids on the Block had a lot to prove with their reunion album, The Block. Would their sound be reminiscent of the pop from their glory days or would the boy band — now composed of grown men — create cheesy interpretations of today's music?

The response is “Click, Click, Click,” the set-opener and song that reportedly initiated the regrouping. The smooth, R&B-flavored track is defined by its hand clap-driven melody, and the raspy-voiced delivery and hollow beat craft a hypnotic vibe as the boys repeatedly ask their girls to “pose for me.” Also following the camera theme is “Lights, Camera, Action,” an energetic groove that borrows every film and TV cliché one can reference.

Guest stars abound on The Block, most notably Ne-Yo, who duets with NKOTB on one of our favorites, “Single.” Fellow Bostonians and predecessors New Edition make an appearance on “Full Service,” a bassy, fluid cut filled to the brim with vocoder vocals. Lady GaGa’s contribution comes in the form of “Big Girl Now,” which features a playful back-and-forth over an electronica-infused R&B melody.

“Grown Man” features purring chants and screeching howls from the Pussycat Dolls, while the club-seducing “Put It on My Tab” is a laid-back duet with Akon. Hip-hop club bangers “Sexify My Love,” “Looking Like Danger” and “Twisted” keep the party going, while ballads such as “2 In the Morning,” “Don’t Cry” and “Officially Over” are perfect for the after-party.

The Block’s only weakness is NKOTB’s reminder that the group is now composed of grown-ups, a theme that’s consistent through many of this solid set’s track list. Despite this, the album is an entertaining journey that’s nostalgia-inducing and forward thinking.

That’s My Jam’s Rating:
5. Get It Now
4. Get It On Sale
3. Get It As a Gift
2. Get It To a CD Exchange Store
1. Don’t Get It At All

Track List:
1. “Click, Click, Click”
2. “Single” with Ne-Yo
3. “Big Girl Now” with Lady GaGa
4. “Summertime”
5. “2 In the Morning”
6. “Grown Man” with Pussycat Dolls and Teddy Riley
7. “Dirty Dancing”
8. “Sexify My Love”
9. “Twisted”
10. “Full Service” with New Edition
11. “Lights, Camera, Action”
12. “Put It on My Tab” with Akon
13. “Stare at You”
14. “One Song”
15. “Don’t Cry”
16. “Officially Over”
17. “Looking Like Danger”

Sound Off – New Kids on the Block: The Block [Deluxe Edition]

Sound Off - Kaskade: The Om Remixes

The latest albums making noise

Om Records already has one of the most talented rosters of funky house DJs around, and their A&R man Ryan Raddon, better known as Kaskade, has remixed several of the label's biggest hits. His new collection, The Om Remixes, reinterprets some of the best San Francisco-style house tracks for a mostly pleasurable listening (and dancing) experience.

Epitomizing this sound is Mark Farina's “To Do” [Kaskade Carry On Mix], which utilizes deep bass tinged with break beats crispness before building to a horn-infused, rhythm-pounding climax. Equally percussion-driven, though more tribal in melody, is Afro-Mystik's “Natural,” the Kaskade Roots Remix that is composed of bongo-originated beats paired with a narcotic set of vocals. The set opener, Colette's “Feelin' Hypnotized,” induces a trance-like harmony with angelic echoing over a continuous beat.

“If I Fall” [Kaskade Soulshower Mix] is a classic contribution to the collection from Naked Music NYC that relies on organic instrumentation to complement the incessant pounding house rhythm, while King Kooba's “If I Could” lives up to its remix moniker (Kaskade More Pop Mix) and could easily find placement on late '90s/early '00s genre playlist.

Things mellow out on “Builder” [Kaskade Let's Make Out Mix], Rithma's stripped downtempo groove that's full of trancey atmospherics and live instruments. Kaskade himself closes the set and keeps the BPMs slow on “Steppin' Out” [Kaskade Chill Out Mix], a cut with shivering vocals laid over a melodious guitar.

The Om Remixes flows from track to track and keeps the set diverse with the mellow songs that close out the disc. There are plenty of party starters, a few obscurities and couple of tracks that are average and easy to overlook, but in all, the album is a fun addition to a true house aficionado's collection.


That’s My Jam’s Rating:
5. Get It Now
4. Get It On Sale
3. Get It As a Gift
2. Get It To a CD Exchange Store
1. Don’t Get It At All

Track List
1. Colette - “Feelin' Hypnotized” [Kaskade Mix]
2. J Boogie's Dubtronic Science with Omega - “Rainfall” [Kaskade Remix]
3. Mark Farina - “To Do” [Kaskade Carry On Mix]
4. Afro-Mystik - “Natural” [Kaskade Roots Remix]
5. Rithma - “Love & Music” [Kaskade Remix]
6. Naked Music NYC - “If I Fall” [Kaskade Soulshower Mix]
7. Colette - “I Didn't Mean to Turn You On” [Kaskade Mix]
8. Mark Farina - “Cali Spaces” [Kaskade Remix]
9. Colette - “What Will She Do for Love” [Kaskade Big Room Mix]
10. King Kooba - “If I Could” [Kaskade More Pop Mix]
11. Rithma - “Builder” [Kaskade Let's Make Out Mix]
12. Kaskade - “Steppin' Out” [Kaskade Chill Out Mix]

Sound Off - Kaskade: The Om Remixes

Sound Off - Christina Aguilera: Keeps Gettin' Better: A Decade of Hits

The latest albums making noise

Greatest hits collections have become much more prevalent over the last decade. As shelf space in box retailers becomes harder to secure, artists are forced to compile their best-known songs in order to stay relevant in the eyes of the deal-hunting public. Christina Aguilera’s first such disc, complete with exclusive distribution at Target, seems to fall prey to this phenomenon.

Now don’t get us wrong ― there are plenty of reasons to pick up this compilation. The defining single “Genie In a Bottle” is here, as is the single/video version of its equally popular cousin, “What a Girl Wants.” Ballads such as “I Turn To You” and “Beautiful” are also present and accounted for, as is the hip-hop banger “Dirrty” with Redman, and the throwback joints “Candyman” and “Ain’t No Other Man.”

Noticeably missing, though, are important songs such as Aguilera’s commercial debut, “Reflection,” and other notable singles such as the “The Voice Within,” “Can’t Hold Us Down,” her pairing with Lil Kim, and anything from 2000’s Mi Reflejo, the Spanish album. You can also forget about legally owning “Lady Marmalade,” Aguilera’s other pairing with Kim, Pink and Mya.

To fill these voids, Aguilera has included four new singles: “Keeps Gettin' Better” and “Dynamite,” which both have a quality reminiscent of Rihanna’s “Disturbia” or one of the tracks from Lady GaGa’s album; a remix of “Genie In a Bottle” titled “Genie 2.0,” that takes on the same melodic tone of the two new singles; and “You Are What You Are (Beautiful),” a much more mellow take that’s as impassioned as the original.

This collection seems premature, especially given that Aguilera has only had three studio albums. Though the decade-spanning set is missing some key elements, it’s still a fun trip down memory lane that reminds us of when we were first introduced to the girl with the powerful pipes. We’ve been hooked ever since, and if the next decade is as full of timeless hits, we may forgive the exclusions.

That’s My Jam’s Rating:
5. Get It Now
4. Get It On Sale
3. Get It As a Gift
2. Get It To a CD Exchange Store
1. Don’t Get It At All

Track List:
1. “Genie In a Bottle”
2. “What a Girl Wants”
3. “I Turn To You”
4. “Come On Over Baby (All I Want Is You)”
5. “Dirrty” with Redman
6. “Fighter”
7. “Beautiful”
8. “Ain’t No Other Man”
9. “Candyman”
10. “Hurt”
11. “Genie 2.0”
12. “Keeps Gettin' Better”
13. “Dynamite”
14. “You Are What You Are (Beautiful)”

Sound Off - Christina Aguilera: Keeps Gettin' Better: A Decade of Hits

Sound Off - Jennifer Hudson

The latest albums making noise

The third season of American Idol featured the powerhouse trio of Fantasia, LaToya London and Jennifer Hudson. Though success came quickly for Fantasia and somewhat for London, Hudson remained quiet for a few years until her big-screen debut in Dreamgirls opposite Beyoncé and Jamie Foxx. Upon winning an Oscar for her performance in the movie, the questions from everyone revolved around when Hudson would release her first album.

The wait was over once her self-titled disc dropped in September. The set is lead by “Spotlight,” an uptempo groove that epitomizes the best of today's non-hip-hop-infused R&B and showcases Hudson's powerful range. This doesn't, however, stop the diva from taking it to the streets on “Pocketbook,” a humorous empowerment anthem punctuated by a tight flow from Ludacris.

The guest appearances continue on “What's Wrong (Go Away),” which features T-Pain's signature, Roger & Zapp-esque computer voice, and on “I'm His Only Woman” with Fantasia. The latter is reminiscent of Shirley Brown's “Woman to Woman,” though in parts more accurately channels Jewell's street remake from the '90s.

“Can't Stop the Rain” showcases Hudson trying to console a young girl who tragically lost her family in a drunk driving accident, which, when one possesses the knowledge of Hudson's own losses last year, seems especially bittersweet. Perhaps that's why “We Gon' Fight” is particularly uplifting, as Hudson vehemently straps up to do what's necessary to keep her relationship strong.

The collection is a strong initial effort and, when coupled with the tragedies she's recently experienced, forecasts some potentially strong music in the future once she's weathered this storm.

That’s My Jam’s Rating:
5. Get It Now
4. Get It On Sale
3. Get It As a Gift
2. Get It To a CD Exchange Store
1. Don’t Get It At All

Track List:
1. “Spotlight”
2. “If This Isn't Love”
3. “Pocketbook” with Ludacris
4. “Giving Myself”
5. “What's Wrong (Go Away)” with T-Pain
6. “My Heart”
7. “You Pulled Me Through”
8. “I'm His Only Woman” with Fantasia
9. “Can't Stop the Rain”
10. “We Gon' Fight”
11. “Invisible”
12. “And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going”
13. “Jesus Promised Me a Home Over There”

Sound Off - Jennifer Hudson

Sound Off - Home & Garden: Domesticated

The latest albums making noise

Home & Garden’s Domesticated offers jackin’ house beats and downtempo grooves, but each are spiced with experimental elements that sometimes help to complement their respective genres’ defining ingredients, and other times providing accessibility for casual dance music fans.

This is especially true on “All the Same,” a pop-style track with vocals by Colette, in which she pleads for a pursuer to leave her alone over a garage-tinged, funky house melody. Additionally, the album’s title track showcases DJ Derrick Carter’s soulful crooning effortlessly collaborating with the tune’s organic, live instrumentation.

The instrumental “El Cortez” is infused with Latin flavor and highlights clever solos from a number of musical sources. “Endless Pieces,” on the other hand, is full of bridges, choruses and verses courtesy of Lucy Woodward, and plenty of Hendrix-esque guitar riffs and ’70s disco beats to take listeners on a psychedelic trip.

Traveling the mellow road is “Sunday Morning,” featuring Mic Murphy, that’s coffeehouse cool mixed with a funky lounge vibe full of live instrumentations, synth solos and the grinding feel of early ’80s R&B. The talk-vocals of Russell Taylor make “Braille” a sexy yet gritty seduction that also embraces that Hendrix-style guitar present in “Endless Pieces.”

Domesticated walks a fine line between electronic music and the many other styles it seeks to incorporate. The effort is valiant, but may turn off some listeners looking for a straight pop or dance record. For those willing to let Home & Garden guide them through their vision, the trip is one worth traversing.

That’s My Jam’s Rating:
5. Get It Now
4. Get It On Sale
3. Get It As a Gift
2. Get It To a CD Exchange Store
1. Don’t Get It At All

Track List:
1. “Easy Going Down” with Jennifer Karr
2. “All the Same” with Colette
3. “Domesticated” with Derrick Carter
4. “El Cortez”
5. “Someday” with Lisa Shaw
6. “Endless Pieces” with Lucy Woodward
7. “Body & Soul” with Mic Murphy
8. “In And Out” with Chez Damier
9. “Wanna Walk Away” with Lisa Shaw
10. “Sunday Morning” with Mic Murphy
11. “Braille” with Russell Taylor

Sound Off - Home & Garden: Domesticated

Sound Off - Beyoncé: I Am ... Sasha Fierce [Deluxe Edition]

The latest albums making noise

After years of being relegated to the stage, Beyoncé finally lets Sasha come out to play on wax. Since we at That’s My Jam love B when she lets the crazy out, the title of this thematic double disc serves to tease and titillate. And two CDs of music? Not very environmental, but exciting nonetheless for those of us swore that B’s last album, B’Day, was garbage ― that is until we gave it a fair listen and were dazzled by several hot videos.

Anyway, after the initial confusion of trying to decide which version of this album to buy (there were three on Target’s shelves. Three. You’re very lucky, Mrs. Carter, that we picked this up at all! CD purchases should not require that much consideration.), we got straight into disc one, the ballads. Lead by “If I Were a Boy,” the tone was set for Beyoncé to deliver some powerful vocals that were noticeably missing on B’Day. “Halo,” one of the two newly released singles, is a perfect example, full of near operatic belting and riffs.

More contemporary in melody is “Broken-Hearted Girl,” a tune that’s as empowering as it is sad, as Beyoncé declares she can’t stay “hurt” in her relationship, but struggles with trying to escape it. “That’s Why You’re Beautiful” is the nature-inspired poem layered over the slow yet gritty bass of an electric guitar.

On disc two, B doesn’t waste time getting the party started with her hit and the most imitated video of 2008, “Single Ladies (Put a Ring On It).” On “Diva,” B drop a few curse words that might not be uncharacteristic of Sasha Fierce, but given the grimy, chopped ’n‘ screwed melody, it’s fitting as she schools us that “A diva is a female version of a hustla.” Reminiscent of B’Day’s “Suga Mama” is “Video Phone,” which finds Sasha asking “Shawty, what yo’ name is?” over a crunk-tight beat. Not to be overlooked, “Scared of Lonely” is a plea passionately delivered over Renaissance period acoustics.

Like all of Beyoncé’s previous projects, this set is engaging, encompassing and entertaining. Even those who aren’t feeling any of the singles/videos currently in rotation will once again fall victim to falling in love with the album over time.

That’s My Jam’s Rating:
5. Get It Now
4. Get It On Sale
3. Get It As a Gift
2. Get It To a CD Exchange Store
1. Don’t Get It At All

Track List:
Disc 1:
1. If I Were a Boy
2. Halo
3. Disappear
4. Broken-Hearted Girl
5. Ave Maria
6. Smash Into You
7. Satellites
8. That’s Why You’re Beautiful

Disc 2:
1. Single Ladies (Put a Ring On It)
2. Radio
3. Diva
4. Sweet Dreams
5. Video Phone
6. Hello
7. Ego
8. Scared of Lonely

Sound Off - Beyoncé: I Am ... Sasha Fierce [Deluxe Edition]

Sound Off - Britney Spears: Circus

The latest albums making noise

Britney Spears’ latest attempt at reviving her career comes in the form of Circus, a set poised to debut atop the Billboard 200 chart. Her last effort, Blackout, was her only disc that failed to achieve the feat, but Circus proves it’s deserving of the honor.

Lead by “Womanizer” (Spears’ first No. 1 single on the Billboard Hot 100 since “… Baby One More Time” in 1999), the set delves into the pure pop fans expect from Britney. Following the first single is the album’s title track. Here, Spears’ proclaims, “There's only two types of people in the world/The ones that entertain and the ones that observe.” Where does she fall? Not surprisingly, she reveals that she’s a “put on a show kind of girl.”

“Out from Under,” which is already getting some airplay on pop radio, is a ballad similar to slow-song endeavors such as “Someday I Will Understand” and “Born To Make You Happy,” though the former’s influence is more prevalent on the maternal lyrics of “My Baby.”

The hypnotic melody of “Blur” is somewhat reminiscent of some of the tracks from 2003’s In the Zone, as is that of “Unusual You,” though the latter is an already upbeat, dance floor-ready cut that DJs are likely ready to begin experimenting with.

Though there are some questionable inclusions on this compilation (“If U Seek Amy,” “Mmm Papi” and Blackout’s unchanged “Radar”), the overall collection of material is entertaining and unapologetically pop. It’s the kind of music that made Spears famous and that fans demand from this and future releases.

Track List:
1. “Womanizer”
2. “Circus”
3. “Out from Under”
4. “Kill the Lights”
5. “Shattered Glass”
6. “If U Seek Amy”
7. “Unusual You”
8. “Blur”
9. “Mmm Papi”
10. “Mannequin”
11. “Lace and Leather”
12. “My Baby”
13. “Radar”

Sound Off - Britney Spears: Circus

Sound Off - Pussycat Dolls: Doll Domination

The latest albums making noise

The Pussycat Dolls are back with Doll Domination, a sophomore disc that finds the group reduced to five after the departure of Carmit Bachar. Despite her absence, little has changed in the formula that has worked so well for the ladies of PCD: unapologetically pop lyrics blended with hip-hop crossover appeal and an easy-on-the-eyes roster of dancers/singers.

The set starts with a trio of club bangers, with the radio hit “When I Grow Up” leading the charge. Following is “Bottle Pop,” the girls’ reunion with Snoop Dogg that’s rife with monotone lyrics and a bass-heavy melody. Missy Elliott makes a cameo on “Whatcha Think About That,” a female empowerment anthem that guarantees “Somebody’s gonna cry tonight/But it won’t be my tears tonight.”

PCD teams up with R. Kelly on “Out of This Club,” a upbeat ballad in which the kittens seductively persuade Kels to take them away from the (strip) club for a life more pleasant and romantic. A broken relationship is the subject of “Happily Never After,” as the woman whose story is being told finally breaks free of her on-again-off-again love, while “Magic” is a Timbaland-infused jam full of the drumbeats present in Madonna’s Hard Candy sessions.

On “In Person,” PCD croons over an upbeat, hand clap-driven beat that’s just as full of Timbaland’s influence as and is reminiscent of their earlier collaboration “Wait a Minute,” but “Halo” has an airy, hypnotic sound that has the flavor of Timbo’s buddy, Justin Timberlake.

Though this effort contains more ballads and midtempo melodies, fans of PCD’s self-titled first album will hear Doll Domination as a continuation of the sound from that disc — with a few modern updates that keep the Dolls relevant in contemporary pop music.

Track List:
1. “When I Grow Up”
2. “Bottle Pop” with Snoop Dogg
3. “Whatcha Think About That” with Missy Elliott
4. “I Hate This Part”
5. “Takin’ Over the World”
6. “Out of This Club” with R. Kelly
7. “Who’s Gonna Love You”
8. “Happily Never After”
9. “Magic”
10. “Halo”
11. “In Person”
12. “Elevator”
13. “Hush Hush”
14. “Love the Way You Love Me”
15. “Whatchamacallit”
16. “I’m Done”

Sound Off - Pussycat Dolls: Doll Domination

Sound Off - Ne-Yo: Year of the Gentleman

The latest albums making noise

Earlier this year, Ne-Yo told That’s My Jam, “If somebody’s looking for a straight urban record, [Year of the Gentleman] might go over your head a little bit.” That’s definitely true of “Closer,” the album’s surprising lead single that’s inspired by European dance music. The song embraces elements of house and trance yet, perhaps due to Ne-Yo’s previous R&B-influenced work, easily found a spot in the rotation of urban radio stations.

Hot on its heels is the one-two punch of “Miss Independent” and “Single.” The first is infectious, full of pop sensibilities and rumored to have been inspired by Ne-Yo’s mother. The second, which also appears as a duet with New Kids on the Block on their latest album, appropriately features the crooner handling the song solo as he reassures his dancing partner “I’ll be your boyfriend ’til this song goes off.”

The lyrics on “Back to What You Know” are blunt as Ne-Yo tells his ladylove, who is convinced that the grass was greener, to go back to her ex over a stomping guitar strum. Softer in rhythm, but equally declarative, is “So You Can Cry.” On the flipside, Ne-Yo himself questions “Why Does She Stay” when he admittedly isn’t contributing to the household chores or appreciating the affections of his woman.

While most of the tracks on this disc are built on an R&B foundation, those who enjoy the eclectic side of the genre (or those looking for an entry point into it) will appreciate Year of the Gentleman. There’s plenty of pop-ready cuts, power ballads and, of course, the dance floor-filler “Closer.” The diversity presented creates an engaging album that offers enough variety to be a sing-along album rather than one that’s relegated to background music.

Track List:
1. "Closer"
2. "Nobody"
3. "Single"
4. "Mad"
5. "Miss Independent"
6. "Why Does She Stay"
7. "Fade Into the Background"
8. "So You Can Cry"
9. "Part of the List"
10. "Back to What You Know"
11. "Lie to Me"
12. "Stop This World"

Sound Off - Ne-Yo: Year of the Gentleman

Sound Off - Natalie Cole: Still Unforgettable

The latest albums making noise

Natalie Cole is no stranger to interpreting iconic favorites from the American Songbook; one need only look at her 1991 album Unforgettable … With Love as proof. For this collection of remakes of the likes of Frank Sinatra, Peggy Lee and, of course, her late father Nat King Cole, Cole offers up jazzy tunes that are as fun as they are passionate.

Nowhere is this more true than with her father on the whimsical, piano-driven “Walkin’ My Baby Back Home,” a Nat King Cole track that by today’s standards is an innocent story of two mischievous lovebirds. If that doesn’t bring a smile to a listener’s face, then “Coffee Time” will. The fun song percolates with a smooth yet mellow encouragement to join Cole at a local (likely non-Starbucks) coffee house she knows “where all the new bohemians go.”

“Nice ’N‘ Easy” is equally commanding and instructive, with the house band happily at the mercy of Cole’s smooth voice as she embraces the many detours on the road to falling in love. She gets feisty on “Why Don’t You Do Right?” which evokes the proverbial smoky lounge with the sexy starlet hypnotizing the crowd with lyrics that simultaneously ask a question and flirt with the all-too-eager-to-listen crowd.

There are no shortages of simple yet beautifully sung ballads, with “Somewhere Along the Way,” “Here Comes That Rainy Day” and “You Go To My Head” fitting the bill. Also included are more cuts about courtship, such as “Lollipops and Roses” and “But Beautiful.”

Rather than making Unforgettable, part two, Cole has made this endeavor much more playful and fun, which is inviting to the casual listener of jazz music and those looking to expand their tastes. Cole also succeeds in making these songs contemporary while still declaring them her own, proudly and respectfully differentiating her versions from those that have been performed by some of the heavyweights of music.

Track List:
1. “Walkin’ My Baby Back Home” with Nat King Cole
2. “Come Rain or Come Shine”
3. “Coffee Time”
4. “Somewhere Along the Way”
5. “You Go To My Head”
6. “Nice ’N‘ Easy”
7. “Why Don’t You Do Right?”
8. “Here’s That Rainy Day”
9. “But Beautiful”
10. “Lollipops and Roses”
11. “The Best Is Yet to Come”
12. “Something’s Gotta Give”
13. “Until the Real Thing Comes Along”
14. “It’s All Right with Me”

Sound Off - Natalie Cole: Still Unforgettable

Review Rewind - TranceGlobalNation

Albums you might have missed, but aren’t too late to check out

Though highly popular at the time overseas, trance was a genre of electronic dance music that was still relegated to “underground” status in 1998 in the United States. TranceGlobalNation, a compilation from the now Roadrunner Records-absorbed label Arcade Music Group and promoted on the TV show Freak City, is filled with what are considered today as some of the style’s signature songs that helped trance enter the U.S. mainstream.

A notable contributor to this collection is Paul Van Dyk, whose “Words (For Love)” is nearly all instrumental, with a few echoed “words” from a female vocalist, that’s full of upbeat builds and satellite-inspired blips to create an entrancing space atmosphere.

Mark Van Dale and Enrico team up on “Water Verve” (sometimes referred to as “Water Wave”), a “house version” of the popular violin-riff from The Verve’s “Bittersweet Symphony.” Andy Nalin and Harry Cane’s “Beachball” is composed of crashing waves, seagulls and island-inspired percussion over an appropriately fluid melody that was remixed on 2004’s “Cruizing,” specifically the Steve Murano Club Mix by the duo and additional contributors Denis the Menace and Alex Prince.

Energy 52’s classic “Café del Mar,” the Three In One Remix being featured on this set, is a pounding track that’s filled with bass that’s perfectly complemented by the ominous, hollowed synthesizer loops. Not to be ignored is Greece 2000’s “Three Drives,” a dance floor-ready track whose composition may convince listeners of the presence of actual string instruments, is one continuous build that results in a climactic explosion that blends some of the best elements of house, break beats and trance.

Though there is some overlay of the tracks, the CD is not mixed in the traditional sense, allowing each song to stand on its own. There is, however, a nice flow to the album and a mix in the tempos to keep the set interesting — which it would be regardless of the order. Though a little harder to find these days, this disc is a perfect addition to the collection of anyone looking to school themselves on the fundamentals of trance or looking to relive their rave days.

Track List:
1. Energy 52 – “Café del Mar” [Three In One Remix]
2. Paul Van Dyk – “Words (For Love)”
3. Vincent de Moor – “Flowation” [UK Mix]
4. Classified Project – “Resurrection”
5. Shrink – “Nervous Breakdown” [Original Rohypnol Mix]
6. Nitro – “Le Plaisir”
7. Da Hool – “Meet Her at the Love Parade”
8. Greece 2000 – “Three Drives”
9. Viridian – “Sunhump” [Mijk Van Dijk Remix]
10. Carlos – “Silmarillia”
11. Andry Nalin and Harry Cane – “Beachball”
12. Love and Rockets – “Resurrection Hex” [Deep Dish Luv ’N‘ Dub Mix]
13. Germinating Seed of Doda – “Upside Din”
14. Mark Van Dale and Enrico – “Water Verve”
15. Sash! – “Encore une Fois”

Review Rewind - TranceGlobalNation

Sound Off - Solange: Sol-Angel and the Hadley St. Dreams

The latest albums making noise

Beyoncé’s little sister Solange made a name for herself with her debut, Solo Star, but, perhaps because of her age at the time, the album’s mediocrity and lack of mature material left listeners questioning whether the two were even related. Fortunately, Sol-Angel and the Hadley St. Dreams sternly addresses these concerns and does an excellent job of convincing naysayers ― with the use of ’60s-style soul and more grown-up subject matter ― that the pair are sisters and that Solange is ready to step out of her sibling’s shadow.

The lead single, “I Decided,” is a passionately delivered throwback to the decade’s girl groups, with Pt. 1 being driven by hand claps and tambourines, while Pt. 2 is a bassier remix courtesy of the Freemasons. That sound is also present on “T.O.N.Y.,” a dedication to a distracting man or event (the jury is still out on which she’s referring to) that caused Solange to detour on her path to love, and “Dancing in the Dark,” which is full of the horns, upbeat drums and xylophonic taps that commonly complement kitschy ’60s British TV shows.

“God Given Name” is one of the most personal cuts on this compilation. Here, Solange declares her individuality from her famous sister, while curiously ending the track by promising that she’s not high. That may seem questionable given the inclusion of “Cosmic Journey,” a sensual jaunt made with Bilal that’s an ecstatic romp through every romantic emotion from giddiness to desire. The song truly lives up to its name with the final few minutes being dedicated to a slowly transitioning trance/house beat that will serve as an intriguing foundation for potential club remixes.

Other notables include: “6 O’Clock Blues,” an upbeat praise of her lover’s ability to make her feel safe despite what she sees on television news; “Ode to Marvin,” appropriately reminiscent of the legendary Marvin Gaye’s work, both lyrically and melodically, circa What’s Going On; and “Sandcastle Disco,” a cut that, to the casual listener, could easily be mistaken for a Motown hit from the label’s apex.

Solange successfully demands that listeners pay attention to her artistry with this project. Though too soon to tell if this will be her career-defining disc, the possibility definitely exists for it to be just that. In the time in between speculation and that becoming fact, it’s fair to say that Solange will achieve not only the aforementioned attention, but also the respect of critics and newfound fans.

Track List:
1. “God Given Name”
2. “T.O.N.Y.”
3. “Dancing in the Dark”
4. “Would’ve Been the One”
5. “Sandcastle Disco”
6. “I Decided, Pt. 1”
7. “Valentine’s Day”
8. “6 O’Clock Blues”
9. “Ode to Marvin”
10. “I Told You So”
11. “Cosmic Journey” with Bilal
12. “This Bird”
13. “I Decided, Pt. 2” [Freemasons Remix]

Sound Off - Solange: Sol-Angel and the Hadley St. Dreams

Sound Off - Rihanna: Good Girl Gone Bad [Reloaded]

The latest albums making noise

Let it be known that That’s My Jam is not a fan of artists re-issuing their albums with new content — especially when we purchase said albums on the day of their initial releases — yet for some reason, Rihanna’s Good Girl Gone Bad [Reloaded] demanded attention.

Maybe it was because two of the three bonus tracks have been burning up radio and are highly addictive. “Disturbia” borders on pop with its gibberish-laden hook while tightroping the melody of a bass-driven, “lite” house groove. “Take A Bow” goes the ballad route, utilizing the piano keys as a foundation for the performance-cliché-heavy track about — ironically — Rihanna’s former lover being unfaithful.

There’s also a strong collection of “filler” tracks, though many of them could easily be spun on radio and video outlets. “Push Up On Me” is a fun cut that pays tribute to the ’80s with its thick inclusion of synthesizers, while “Rehab” is acoustically similar to stuff from Justin Timberlake’s FutureSex/LoveSounds sessions. “Good Girl Gone Bad” finds Rihanna embracing an “urban guitar jam” that’s as much a warning to men taking their women for granted as it is to the ladies looking to cross over to the proverbial dark side.

Lest anyone forgot, Good Girl Gone Bad [Reloaded] is also packed with a number of chart-toppers, including 2007’s inescapable “Umbrella” with Jay-Z, “Hate That I Love You” with Ne-Yo, “Don’t Stop the Music,” “Shut Up and Drive,” “If I Never See Your Face Again” with Maroon 5 and “Breakin’ Dishes.”

It would be bold to compare this set artistically to masterpieces such as Michael Jackson’s Thriller, Prince’s Purple Rain or Madonna’s Like A Virgin. One thing Good Girl Gone Bad [Reloaded] does have in common with them, though, is its eclecticism. The diversity on this record eliminates monotony by providing songs that are engaging and easy to listen to, and cater to a variety of moods.

Track List:
1. “Umbrella” with Jay-Z
2. “Push Up On Me”
3. “Don’t Stop the Music”
4. “Breakin’ Dishes”
5. “Shut Up and Drive”
6. “Hate That I Love You” with Ne-Yo
7. “Say It”
8. “Sell Me Candy”
9. “Lemme Get That”
10. “Rehab”
11. “Question Existing”
12. “Good Girl Gone Bad”
13. “Disturbia”
14. “Take A Bow”
15. “If I Never See Your Face Again” with Maroon 5

Sound Off - Rihanna: Good Girl Gone Bad [Reloaded]

Sound Off - KeAnthony: A Hustlaz Story

The latest albums making noise

KeAnthony could be the perfect blend of street cred (he spent time in jail à la Lyfe Jennings), vocal acrobatics (think R. Kelly) and seductive soul (in the same vein as Tank, who coincidentally penned some of the album’s material). This “tri-brid” of R&B’s debut album, A Hustlaz Story, demonstrates potential to please both mainstream and chitlin’ circuit audiences.

Appealing strongly to the latter set is “Down Girl,” in which KeAnthony praises his woman, but questions why a lady who could have any man in the universe would choose a guy like him. The flattering yet self-deprecating vocals glide over the streetwise groove.

If ever there was a tribute to the R in R&B, KeAnthony definitely delivers it with “Everytime I’m High,” a track whose vocal play and melody are reminiscent of R. Kelly circa Chocolate Factory and TP.3 Reloaded. Here, the crooner waxes poetic on the joys and escapism benefits of, well, getting high.

“Meddlin’” offers an updated rendition of The O’Jays’ “Back Stabbers” and quickly dismisses the importance of so-called friends who spread gossip. Another cut deals with a betrayal. “Forever My Homie” is apparently dedicated to the childhood buddy who turned KeAnthony in to the police prior to his eight-year prison sentence. Though questioning in nature, KeAnthony avoids taking too bitter an approach to the song, instead repeating how he’s been thinking about this friend and also his own future.

A Hustlaz Story will be ear candy for both old-school and hip-hop soul lovers, though the former may be turned off by some of the forced cursing KeAnthony sprinkles throughout the compilation. This could be in an attempt to sound more street, but the album already has thug appeal based on the subject matter and the radio-ready rhythms that accompany the lyrics.

Track List:
1. “Down Girl”
2. “That’s What I’ll Be”
3. “I Ain’t Tryna”
4. “This Feelin’”
5. “My Song”
6. “Forever My Homie”
7. “I Thought”
8. “Everytime I’m High”
9. “A Hustlaz Story”
10. “Call Me”
11. “Meddlin’”
12. “It’s Okay”

Sound Off - KeAnthony: A Hustlaz Story