Standout Single: "It's in the Mornin'" with Snoop
For Fans Of: Justin Timberlake, R&B Jams with Hip-Hop Collaborations
and
Maxwell "Blacksummers'night"
Standout Single: "Helpsomebody"
For Fans Of: Marving Gaye, Sade, Erykah Badu, Anthony Hamilton
Although these albums are very different, I am going to let them share the crown at #21 for Co-R&B Albums of the Year. Released at the end of the year, Robin Thicke's follow-up to the wonderful "Something Else" album, is his most explicit yet, and also his most ridiculous. "Shakin it 4 Daddy" is ridiculously bad, and the clips of his imaginary Sex Therapy sessions are unnecessary, but who cares when you can redeem yourself with a song with Snoop about nookie in the AM? "Jus Right" will be sure to please fans of his previous albums. I also have to wonder if Dr. Drew, America's favorite sex therapist, is bumping this album in his free time at home?
On second thought, I think it is much more likely that Dr. Drew would recommend the more mature and seasoned "Blacksummers'night." Maxwell's first studio release since 2001 is apparently the first album in a trilogy, and could very well be one of the best R & B albums of the century so far. Although it only measures 9 tracks long, each one is an elegant composition of jazz, funk and soul infused delight. The band assembled for this masterpiece doesn't miss a beat, and this album will continue to delight the listener for years to come. I recommend purchasing this album on vinyl and keeping it handy on your turntable for Valentine's Day.
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