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Boyz II Men – Twenty (A PopEntertainment.com Music Review)

  • Writer: PopEntertainment
    PopEntertainment
  • Nov 2, 2011
  • 2 min read

Boyz II Men - Twenty
Boyz II Men - Twenty

Boyz II Men - Twenty (Koch)


Has it really been 20 years since "Motownphilly?"


Apparently, it's been that long, and the best-selling R&B group Boyz II Men are reminding us of their staying power and their ability to live up to their name. No longer boyz but grown men, their aptly entitled anniversary album, Twenty, is a very pleasant jaunt down R&B/Pop music memory lane. No, this isn't another greatest hits album, but instead a mixture of re-recorded Boyz II Men staples as well as some new music with that signature Boyz II Men blend. 


Like a few of their previous albums, lost is the anchor of bass, Michael McCary. The re-worked classics still sound as good as before but just don't have the fullness of the originals. They did manage to make them more organic with live instrument production, and some re-recorded vocals. 


Don't be fooled, they still have the vocals to carry the songs after 20 years. Expect to hear "I'll Make Love to You," as well as "On Bended Knee," "End of the Road," and the aforementioned "Motownphilly." And that is just part of their two-disc offering. 



Loaded with thirteen new tracks, there is something on this album for die-hard fans as well as those discovering them after 20 years if that's possible. Leading off is single "More Than You'll Ever Know." This airy single features the voice of R&B legend Charlie Wilson (The Gap Band). Vocally the song works perfectly, with Wilson's distinct vocals blending fluently with those of the group. They can still harmonize like no other group out today. 


Next, and probably the most intriguing, is the single "One Up for Love." Those expecting signature Boyz II Men will not find it in this song. Backed by a live band, and futuristic synthesizers is a contemporary rock song about peace, unity and well... love. Throw one up for love/throw one up for love repeats the chorus. It's bound to catch the ear of anyone who knows the Boyz II Men style but will surely not disappoint. Other notable tracks include "Put Some Music On," and "Refuse to Be the Reason."


After years of soothing us with the syrupy sweet ballads, Boyz II Men are still as strong as ever. In case you were wondering what R&B sounded like 20 years ago or just want to reminisce and rediscover some great music, this album is definitely worth a listen. If the next 20 years are anything like the last, Boyz II Men will continue to give their fans what they are used to hearing. Classic, timeless R&B music. (11/11)


Abraham Kuranga


Copyright © 2011 PopEntertainment.com. All rights reserved. Posted: November 2, 2011.



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