Divine's Kia, Tonia, and Nikki--who hail from Englewood, N.J., Newark, N.J. and Brooklyn, respectively--can sing. They've meshed husk and sexy croons like few others, as evidenced on their smashing debut single "Lately." Its telling chorus could win anyone over. The problem with Fairy Tales, the trioΓÇÖs Pendulum/Red Ant debut, is the production, which unsuccessfully travels from old-school Motown-sounding backdrops ("Good 'N Plenty," "I Wish") to bubbly, slumber-party favorites ("Fairy Tales") to dated, though appealing, funk ("I Never Thought"). These young ladies deserve much better.
Fortunately, they released "Lately" first. Now if they're looking for a pop hit, they will score major points with "Sweet Essence," an angelic ballad with violins, harps, light congas, serene vocals, and impacting background vocals by the Design New York City Hum Choir and India Arie. As far as R&B goes, they have another winner in "It's About Time," whose timely rhythm twang will maintain the attention of "Lately" fans.
