Search - Blackstreet :: Blackstreet

True R&B Music laced by the New Jack King himself..

miggitymark | Vancouver, BC, Canada | 12/05/1999

(4 out of 5 stars)

"BLACKstreet formed not long after the release of Bobby Brown's second album. Comprised of Chauncey Hannibal, Joseph Stonestreet, Levi Little and the New Jack Swing innovator Teddy Riley, the group went on to record "Baby Be Mine" for the CB4 soundtrack. Stonestreet left the group prior to the release of their self-titled debut and was replaced by ex-Jodeci background vocalist David Hollister. The first part of their album consists of supreme R&B dance tracks such as "Booti Call," "I Like The Way You Work," and "U Blow My Mind." The latter half of the album is suited for those feeling romantic. "Before I Let You Go," the summer smash of '94, emcompasses a Jodeci-like lead singer in Hollister. "Joy," originally written for Michael Jackson, definitely sends out an MJ vibe accompanied by smooth piano background music. Overall, this album showcases BLACKstreet as an up and coming act."

Blackstreet's Rather Impressive Debut...

abstraxmc | Manchester, UK | 04/01/2003

(4 out of 5 stars)

"As soon as I'd finished watching the now classic "New Jack City" I knew I had to head to the nearest music store and ask just how to get hold of some material by Blackstreet. The movie previewed the opening track from the album to the world, and as soon as the drums kicked it, you couldn't help but be moved by the track.Buying an album on the strength of a single track isn't always the best approach, but in this case it was more than worth it. At first listen one could be forgiven for being a little disappointed, but over a number of listens you really do begin to appreciate the music on show here.The only point where the album falters a little is as it approaches Track 10. The transition between the New Jack Swing of the opening tracks and the slower ballad ended up being awkward, but this can be forgiven, given that once Track 12 drops, that fall off seems like a distant memory."You Blow My Mind" is ridiculously infectious, and one of their best works even after 3 more Blackstreet albums. "Confession" is a beautifully sensual song, bearing an eerie resemblance to Alexander O Neal's "Sunshine", not that it could ever be a bad thing. The new era R&B fan may also recognise "Tonight's The Night" as using the same sample as the Michael Jackson "Butterflies Remix" with Eve, in fact the beat is almost identical, which simply goes to show how timeless this music is. Admittedly in these times, the album sounds a tad dated due to the early 90s drums that Teddy Riley used to craft the backdrop of this album, although this is a lot less noticeable with the ballads. So for those simply stuck on the latest R&B sounds, purchasing this may not be the best idea if you're looking for a short term fix. However, this is the music that inspired most of the R&B music that is heard today, in fact, The Neptunes were proteges of Teddy Riley, and we all know how much work they've put in this past 2 years. If you do want to become acquainted with the history of the music you love, or like myself you have grown up hearing countless hours of R&B, then this an essential purchase.Highlight Tracks"Baby Be Mine", "You Blow My Mind", "Falling In Love Again", "Tonight's The Night""

This was a very cool CD and JOY is the best in the album.

abstraxmc | 08/16/1998

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is the best cd ever done by Blackstreet, The best song that I have ever listened to in my whole life is JOY , the lyrics are just right,I listen to it almost daily. Did Blackstreet dedicate it to anyone in particular ??"