Record labels should cease and desist producing double CDs. Of the 28 entries on R. KellyΓÇÖs latest, R., the master of incorporating neighborhood vernacular into grinding ear candy simply includes too many tracks, which lessens the otherwise strong impact of this album.
Most of the songs on the first R. disc are incredible, as the Chicago-based artist establishes a relaxing, funky vibe driven by electric guitars, various keys, and a tame whispery singing style. The aftermath of ruining a relationship prevails (a nice switch from themes like "Down Low [Nobody Has To Know]"). Now, R. KellyΓÇÖs full of remorse: "One Man" seeks to rescue a woman in despair; "DonΓÇÖt Put Me Out" begs for forgiveness; and "When A WomanΓÇÖs Fed Up" explains when apologies become irrelevant. "If I Could Turn Back The Hands Of Time" remakes the classic and "Suicide" is simply a moving, self-explanatory piece. There are even nice mid-tempo ballads in the vein of the albumΓÇÖs first single, "Half On A Baby."
The second disc is not as strong, except for duets with Celine Dion ("I Am Your Angel") and the raunchy sex-hibitionist Foxy Brown ("Dollar Bill"). The artist himself seems to be having fun on the remaining tracks, but he tends to get mired in too many bad imitations of Puffy and Mase.
Abandoning the consistency of the first disc to explore new ground is a good thing--but not at the expense of the consumer.
