Monica - The Makings of Me Album Review

Monica

The Makings of Me

J Records

Album Review

Monica returns, and boy do you need this album in your collection. "A Dozen Roses" is the kind of quality R&B that brings a tear to the eye. Produced by Missy and sampling Curtis Mayfields "The Making of You". The strong, near man hater lyrical content of this album in places would suggest that Monica or perhaps her friends have been through a fair amount of shit with the men in their lives. This is more than evident on tracks such as the smouldering "Sideline Ho".

The jaw droppingly classy piano lead "Why Her", the lyrical content, production and power of the vocals would suggest that this track could do for Monica what "We Belong Together" did to rejuvenate Mariah Carey's career. It's no coincidence that both are produced by Jermain Dupri either.

Other killers on this set that should be in every red blooded R&B fans collection include "Hell No". The crazy smooth Missy Elliot produced "Doin' Me Right", shows that Monica is happier where she is at now relationship wise, as does the solid sensual slow jam "My Everything". While the oriental musical influence is clear on the head nodder "Gotta Move On".

This album is so good, so strong and is a very rare jewel these days, a very good, lyricaly driven R&B set, that is quite simply one of THE albums of the year.

Bigger 5/5