Customer Reviews

Blackstreet

5 star:		(19)
4 star:		(6)
3 star:		(2)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

BLACKstreet formed not long after the release of Bobby Brown's second album. Comprised of Chauncey Hannibal, Joseph Stonestreet, Levi Little and the New Jack Swing innovator Teddy Riley, the group went on to record "Baby Be Mine" for the CB4 soundtrack. Stonestreet left the group prior to the release of their self-titled debut and was replaced by ex-Jodeci background vocalist David Hollister. The first part of their album consists of supreme R&B dance tracks such as "Booti Call," "I Like The Way You Work," and "U Blow My Mind." The latter half of the album is suited for those feeling romantic. "Before I Let You Go," the summer smash of '94, emcompasses a Jodeci-like lead singer in Hollister. "Joy," originally written for Michael Jackson, definitely sends out an MJ vibe accompanied by smooth piano background music. Overall, this album showcases BLACKstreet as an up and coming act.

As soon as I'd finished watching the now classic "New Jack City" I knew I had to head to the nearest music store and ask just how to get hold of some material by Blackstreet. The movie previewed the opening track from the album to the world, and as soon as the drums kicked it, you couldn't help but be moved by the track.

Buying an album on the strength of a single track isn't always the best approach, but in this case it was more than worth it. At first listen one could be forgiven for being a little disappointed, but over a number of listens you really do begin to appreciate the music on show here.

The only point where the album falters a little is as it approaches Track 10. The transition between the New Jack Swing of the opening tracks and the slower ballad ended up being awkward, but this can be forgiven, given that once Track 12 drops, that fall off seems like a distant memory.

"You Blow My Mind" is ridiculously infectious, and one of their best works even after 3 more Blackstreet albums. "Confession" is a beautifully sensual song, bearing an eerie resemblance to Alexander O Neal's "Sunshine", not that it could ever be a bad thing. The new era R&B fan may also recognise "Tonight's The Night" as using the same sample as the Michael Jackson "Butterflies Remix" with Eve, in fact the beat is almost identical, which simply goes to show how timeless this music is.

Admittedly in these times, the album sounds a tad dated due to the early 90s drums that Teddy Riley used to craft the backdrop of this album, although this is a lot less noticeable with the ballads. So for those simply stuck on the latest R&B sounds, purchasing this may not be the best idea if you're looking for a short term fix. However, this is the music that inspired most of the R&B music that is heard today, in fact, The Neptunes were proteges of Teddy Riley, and we all know how much work they've put in this past 2 years. If you do want to become acquainted with the history of the music you love, or like myself you have grown up hearing countless hours of R&B, then this an essential purchase.

Highlight Tracks

"Baby Be Mine", "You Blow My Mind", "Falling In Love Again", "Tonight's The Night"

This is the best cd ever done by Blackstreet, The best song that I have ever listened to in my whole life is JOY , the lyrics are just right,I listen to it almost daily. Did Blackstreet dedicate it to anyone in particular ??

When I first purchased this CD it was amazing then and it still is Amazing now. A Wonderful Start for a Premiere Male Group. First of all there are 20 songs that by it self is impressive but content is far more impressive. Some of my favorite songs are Tonights the Night, Baby be Mine, Love's In Need, Joy, Before I Let You Go Confession,. Falling In Love Again, Candlelight Night (Interlude, Givin' You All My Lovin' (CD Bonus Track). The some of the stand out songs Before I let You Go and Tonights the Night.

As far as Male Groups. Blackstreet was way ahead of it time as far as development and structure. That balance and structure and concept had to be Teddy Riley. I would encourage anyone and everyone to purchase this album especially if you enjoy good music and wonderful vocals that cater to the lover in you. These men are Very Good.

10 years since it came out, I still love this debut. Blackstreet really came on their own with this one. I still like the nasty funk of Booti Call, which sounds like it was done by a live band in one take. It has that P-Funk thing going on in it. But the rest of the album is solid, as Teddy Riley's songs for the group are nice, such as Before I Let You Go, I Like the Way You Work, this one song that sounds like Bon Bon Vie. Teddy is such a superb musician and his jump from Guy to this group was just another strong point in his career. WTED is still in strong form all over this album!

This cd Epitomizes what soul and funk are all about. Easy listening with raw sensuality mixed in with funk. It makes you wanna grab your man or you woman and make mad and sweet love,or dance till the sun rises.Blackstreet with Teddy Riley is just amazing. Dave Hollister's soulful voice will melt you with his soulful sounds.His voice is like butter BABY!!!!! Blackstreet I LOVE YOU. This is as far as I am concerned is your best cd ever. I have them all but this is the best.Thanx.

To all the people who thinks Blackstreet's only song was "No Diggity" I have one thing to say Ya'll are sleeping on this. This CD is blazin'!! I love this CD!! With cuts like Baby be Mine and Joy, and not to mention Before I Let Go. If you liked "Another Level" you'll love "Blackstreet"

I am a Blackstreet fan for life and this, there debut CD, is blazin. I haven't heard many of these type of songs since them. THere awesome and if your a fan of Blackstreet or of there NEW JACK SWING style this CD has to be in there collection. It's possibly better than the others. IT's amazing, with half of the CD being upbeat and the other half slower songs it's an awesome mix. Blackstreet Forever - - Day Meets Night (look for us soon)

I love this CD. Its a find in a half. So if you love good music. Try the original before anything else

I thought every song on this CD was very good. This is the kind of CD which you could just play and don't have to skip around to other songs. I really like this CD that's why after a couple years have past I needed to buy it again because I had misplaced it.