to listen or purchase
Though his updated grown man looks speak of a newfound maturity, musically time has stopped for Case. The everyman singer who inexplicably landed a series of late 90s hits with a limited, throaty sound starting with 1996's "Touch Me, Tease Me" and closing 2001 with the high note of "Missing You," proved that a great song and a high-rotation video on BET goes a long way. Eight years later, Case returns with a project that doesn't come close to his artistically delectable Personal Conversation or underappreciated Open Letter. There are no classics like "Faded Pictures" or cult faves like "Love of My Life" to coax this rose to full bloom. Cut too soon, many of these petals have wilted with time, reminiscent of filler cuts from several years before. Only a few buds like the romantic "Place To Stay" make this rose worth drying and saving for old times sake.
Though his updated grown man looks speak of a newfound maturity, musically time has stopped for Case. The everyman singer who inexplicably landed a series of late 90s hits with a limited, throaty sound starting with 1996's "Touch Me, Tease Me" and closing 2001 with the high note of "Missing You," proved that a great song and a high-rotation video on BET goes a long way. Eight years later, Case returns with a project that doesn't come close to his artistically delectable Personal Conversation or underappreciated Open Letter. There are no classics like "Faded Pictures" or cult faves like "Love of My Life" to coax this rose to full bloom. Cut too soon, many of these petals have wilted with time, reminiscent of filler cuts from several years before. Only a few buds like the romantic "Place To Stay" make this rose worth drying and saving for old times sake. Notable songs: "Deja Vu" "Turns Me On," "Place to Stay," "Shoulda Known Better" Vocals: 2 stars Lyrics: 2.5 stars Music: 2.5 stars Production: 3 stars -- SoulTracks Call: Mildly Recommended
By L. Michael Gipson