First up is my review on Al B's latest; Honey I'm Home. I also posted this review on Amazon.
I wish I knew how to really break down how powerful this CD is. I grew up on R&B, but lately, I've resented most entertainers who claim to represent this genre. The songwriting and musical arrangement has been too formulaic, too sophomoric, too ridiculous for serious consideration from me. That said, I am indeed a music snob. I'm one to read liner notes, take note of which performers actually write, produce and arrange their music. I'm not a musician at all, but I am an artist and I respect creativity and craft. Real craft.
That said, like a few of the other reviews, I can't decide which song is my favorite. I've been psycho-listening to this CD all day. It is that tight. First off, the instrumentation is wonderfully refreshing. I don't hear the typical arrangements; before the song begins my feet are tapping and my head is bobbing.
Now, getting to the lyrics. Just sheer romance, seduction, and humor. Al and the gang have put together some very, very clever songs that tell stories, not just verses and refrains. I don't know if there are videos out yet, but really when you hear these songs you can close your eyes and let Al's singing put the picture in your mind.
You can't call it R&B without some deep breathy whispers, seductive talking and a few woos here and there. Al manages to pull this off without being cheesy, overbearing or just plain eww. Can you whisper in a classy way? Al can. He sings effortlessly and meaningfully. I don't doubt that these songs mean something to him. I love the background harmonies, which are not always where you might expect them. He's really put together a package that ought to blow the charts up, but we know quality is not always recognized and respected by the masses. Hence, why I am writing this review. You will not regret the purchase of this CD.
Fragile is such a touching and poignant rendition to the Sting classic. He also covers Lady in My Life. Al makes these his own songs, full of admiration and passion.
The CD is love instruction 101. How to treat a lover, how to be a man, how to build a relationship, and what not to do to tear it down. Keep in mind, humor is all over this too. He doesn't take all this romance-y stuff to seriously, as evidenced in Top of Your Lungs (I'm right here!).
If you're looking for the club song, that would be Whatcha Got. I'll admit I un-checked this song on the playlist; but I'm a romantic purist and this just didn't do it for me. Don't let that stop you. This whole CD is perfect.
My best to Al B. Sure, Kyle West and Hidden Beach!
