(April 28, 2023) Refined, romantic and blended just the right amount of sweetness and soul, After 7's enduring appeal makes sense. Formed in the late 80s by Keith Mitchell and brothers Kevon and Melvin Edmonds, the strength of their talents and lyrical/production prowess of their younger sibling, Kenneth "Babyface" Edmonds, produced hit singles ("Can't Stop," "Ready Or Not," "Til You Do Me Right," etc.), soundtrack magic (The Five Heartbeats and Soul Food, where they recorded under the fictitious film moniker of Milestone, respectively) and gold and platinum sales.
In-between the release of 2016's Timeless and their current offering Unfinished Business, the trio was sidelined by the death of Melvin in 2019 but have soldiered on with Kevon, Keith and Danny McClain, who've reprised that trademark tenderness on their latest lovestruck single, a radio mix of "The Day," from their latest album.
Written and produced Mint Condition's Lawrence Waddell and Stokley, who also contributes his inimitable vocals, the harmony-laden midtempo skillfully encapsulates the sensation of feeling one's mind spin and their world tilt on its axis when that special someone entered their lives: "First day you walked in my life, my heart shook and my life capsized/I never saw it coming, though I was captivated from the start." No matter what your present relationship status, "The Day" reminds you of why the power of love, and the sound of After 7, remains so essential. Whether this potent collaboration sells you on finally copping their latest set or even simply refreshing your online dating profile----you can't lose.
By Melody Charles
After 7 feat. Stokley - "The Day"
