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A big surprise!

06/29/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Well all I knew about Monifah before this was "Touch it" (a freaky dance tune) and that song from "New York Undercover"; so let's just say I wasn't too impressed with her music. But a friend of mine happened to have bought this album. She listened to it for a bit and then forgot about it. So I picked it up and was amazed at all this talent that Monifah had. The album did have sensual moments ("Peaches and Cream" & "Nana") but I will say that it's all done in class (unlike Janet Jackson's "Would You Mind" from All for You). She can belt out a real emotional tune ("Hard to say goodbye") and go to an upbeat tune (Fairytales) and then go for some jazzy flavor (Home). If you read that this is her best album, believe it, because it is. It's very consistent and enjoyable to listen to. A very good underrated album.
For some more underrated good R&B albums check out Amerie's ALL I HAVE, Zhane's SATURDAY NIGHT, Remy Shand's WAY I FEEL and anything by Tamia."

Home is a place filled with love, and affection.

J. Williams | Riverside, CA | 12/12/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This album will never reach it's full potential, why? No, not because it lacks, it's because Universal records hasn't a clue how to promote it. Or maybe they're to damn busy promoting Nelly & Cash Money? There was very little buzz about this album before it comes out. Me being a huge Monifah fan, I didn't even know she was working on an album (let alone about to release one) until about 45 days before it was came out. I guess they're too busy with Cash Money projects to dedicate some much needed time and energy to one of the few truely talented artists out there today. Monifah isn't hype, she is the real thing. "I Can Tell" the lead single, was a fair choice. While it doesn't do a whole lot to show us her [wonderful] voice. It has a solid track behind it, mixed with simple but effective lyrics. And her voice is far from weak on it, infact she sounds better then most artists on their best songs, and she is capaible of so much more. Monifah, if anything is known for her sexual/sensual, suggestive songs. One listen to Peaches & Cream, you will be left speechless [I was] While she's has never had a huge hit, Touch it went gold as did 2 of her other albums. She is somewhat like the pretty girl, who sits quietly in the back of the class, going mostly un-noticed. But Monifah is a force to be dealt with. Hopefully Universal will wake the hell up and do something to make sure she is heard. Her voice is that of an Angel. This album has a few glimmering moments that actually touch you, something so rare in music today, how often does that happen I ask you?"

Home Is Where Mo's Heart Is

Myles Q. Davis | USA | 04/04/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"To date, Monifah hasn't yet scorched the Billboard charts since her over the top club banger 'Touch It.' Unfortunately, the release of the single had Monifah labeled as a sex diva eager for some public shock value. Most suprising is that many people will never know this woman's immense talent. From the laid back grooves and powerhouse vocals on her debut album 'Moods...Moments', to the slicker, deeply sensual r&b sound on her sophmore effort 'Mo'hogany', till today with her most mature, beautiful, seductive, and groundbreaking effort 'Home'. It's a shame that the album is already out of print, seeing as how its release date was in 2000. Even more of a shame is the fact that even though Monifah's albums show a true maturity and growth throughout, she still goes unrecognized. For those in doubt, just listen to the slinky, thumping beats of 'Peaches and Cream', or the club and radio ready jam 'Rescue Me.' Emotional prowess has never been difficult for Monifah, clearly evident on tracks such as '(How) Ya Gonna Love Me' and 'Hard to Say Goodbye.' Monifah has perhaps created the best duet of the 21st century with Chico DeBarge called 'Nana', a teasing new-jack flavored jam sure to keep bodies grooving. Miss Carter also opts for warm, affectionate old school jams such as 'Brown Eyes' and 'Feva.'Its no doubt been a struggle for Monifah to watch mainstream success pass her by, but it hasn't phased her. Do not categorize her as a run of the mill r&b diva with power house pipes. Regard her as a true artist who can sing, write, produce and has enough confidence to keep making great music. If anyone still needs proof of the immense artistry of Monifah's music and voice, cop her first two albums (Moods...Moments as well as Home are very hard to find and may only be available through both Amazon and Ebay). Hopefully those who manage Monifah will wake up and begin promoting her as they know they should. Until then, Monifah is truly the music industry's best kept secret and patiently, eloquently, and gracefully waits in the wings for her turn.'Home' is truly an r&b classic. Don't miss out. And thanks Monifah for all your class and creative flair."