Twenty x Boyz II Men (Album Review)

Review by: Robin 'Oodie' Cooper

When you hear “Motownphilly”, an introduction isn’t needed because Motown fans are no stranger to the Philly product Boyz II Men.The quartet, which usually consists of Michael McCary, Nathan Morris, Wanya Morris, and Shawn Stockman make another attempt at a chart-topping album without bass singer Michael. Being absent for 6 years because of health issues, he declined the reunion. After years of remakes and conflicts with record labels, Boyz II Men release their 20^th anniversary LP Twenty, which is their tenth studio album and second under MSM’s Music Group.

Featuring 13 newly recorded tracks and 9 rerecorded hits, Boyz II Men travel back to their Motown roots and Philadelphia style of R&B. Disc 1 introduces us to that familiar sound yet again. The album’s first single “More Than You’ll Ever Know” features legendary Charlie Wilson, who compliments that classic B2M sound adding undeniable vocals. “Believe," produced by Teddy Riley, is an inspirational track in which the “Boyz” harmonize about the issues that still plague today’s world and the path to change. When it comes to inspiration and motivation, B2M never disappoints. Linking back up with Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds, “I Shoulda Lied” is pretty much self-explanatory. A bittersweet moment of honesty causes the resignation of a hopeful relationship. This track was obviously missing the bass vocals, but it remains a good addition to the album. Disc II gives us the Motown classics, the Billboard toppers and B2M’s most memorable hits. “Motownphilly," which was the group’s first single, sets the mark for what Disc II offers. Featured signature track “On Bended Knee” made the cut along with “I’ll Make Love to You” and Soul Food’s theme song “A Song for Mama”.

Released on Oct.25^th, Twenty was definitely worth the wait. Although it didn’t come close to the sales of earlier hit albums, the production and effort put forth give Boyz II Men fans more than enough to be thankful for.

OFFICIAL IVY LEAGUE GRADE: B

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"More Than You'll Ever Know" 

x Boyz II Men ft. Charlie Wilson

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01 Boyz II Men - More Than You'll Ever Know (feat. Charlie Wilson).m4a