Music Reviews
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Last Updated: October 7,1999
Current Releases
Singles
Backstreet Boys
Larger Than Life
Another definite hit from the Backstreet Boys. I believe this is the first song that BSB had a hand in writing that has been released. That makes this single successful on more than one level. It’s a dedication to the fans that the fans love. It is reminiscent of “Everybody (Backstreet’s Back)”, but on another level. From the opening music and AJ’s “evil” laugh to the chorus, you are hooked. Young and old seem to like this song. I have caught many a parent singing along to this song. I even know one that went out and bought their “Millennium” CD just for this song. If BSB can continue to deliver hits like this one, they will have definite staying power in the pop music world and the continued respect that they have come to earn.
Billie
She Wants You
This newcomer from Britain is better than expected. At first, her looks made me think of Britney Spears, but something makes her different. Her song, "She Wants You" shows off her vocal skills very well. In a way, she sounds kind of like Mariah Carey. It also has a good groove beat that periodically changes. Good debut...
Review #2 By Jenna
And you thought Britney Spears was annoying. This song works that last
nerve you were saving for your retirement. She could have limited the
'she wants' down to a good, round number, like '0'. The beat in the
music is good, but the lyrics need to be changed.
5ive
If Ya Gettin' Down
Two words: LOVE IT!!!! Granted this song was only released in Europe and on their official website (where I first heard it), but being from the States I wish they would have released it here. 5ive doesn’t get airplay like the rest of the boy bands, and there’s only so many times you can hear “When The Lights Go Out”. My friends and I received copies of this single from a friend that had been in Europe, and let’s just say it’s always in our CD players. The bass line is awesome and I’m not a big fan of bass. This is one of those songs you love to play loud while driving around with friends on a Friday night. There’s not much singing on this tune, mostly rapping and chanting but it works. Big thumbs up to J, Sean, and Abs for having a hand in writing this great tune. I can’t wait to hear more from those five lads from England.
Jordan Knight
Give It To You
Jordan worked with Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis to create this cool track. This has got to be one of the best new songs to hit the charts. Even though the lyrics might make some blush, the song has a great beat with a hot guy and voice to go along with it. We're hoping to see more great songs like this one on his upcoming album.
Ricky Martin
Livin' La Vida Loca
I LOVE this song. It puts me in such a good mood with it’s Latin beats and rhythms. It’s a debut with flavor and when I say that, I’m talking about the song and the singer. ( :-P ) If this is a sign of what is to come on his album, then I can’t wait.
Joey McIntyre
Stay The Same
The former New Kid is back to prove himself, and so far he has. This ballad is a great song. The message and meaning are heart-felt and sensitive. While it’s a good song, I think he should have picked something more up-tempo to debut with. But still, it’s a good song and it’s getting pretty good airplay.
98°
I Do (Cherish You)
This has to be one of the best covers of a song. Especially since it went from country to R&B. Nick sings the entire song and just makes me swoon. They said it might be used as a wedding song a lot this year (it is also featured on the "Notting Hill" soundtrack), but I say it’s just gonna get a lot of play no matter what.
Review # 2 by Jenna
This is the fourth release off of the 98* and Rising album, and they haven't let us down yet!! I predict this song to be the new wedding song, making the list with others like "I'll Be" by Edwin McCain and "Your Love Amazes Me" by John Berry. With lead vocals by Nick, and help from Jeff and Drew, this song is sure to be seen on the charts for many months to come.
N*SYNC
Music Of My Heart
I’m not a fan of NSYNC, but this is one of their best songs to date. Usually when I hear one of their ballads, I’m quick to change the channel. With this song it’s a different story. It has a more mature sound to it compared to their past teeny-bopper driven songs. Maybe the fact that they worked with Gloria Estefan has something to do with it. This ballad succeeds where their others have failed in the past musically and vocally. They blend really well with Ms. Estefan and the orchestration is beautifully done. This song is definitely a step up for them. Now if they can continue with this more mature style of music in the future; maybe, just maybe, they will get some of the respect that they are looking for.
Britney Spears
Sometimes
This is Miss Spears second single. This song is between a mid-tempo to slow beat. It has a nice soft sound. The only thing that bugs me about it is that she is covered up by her backgrounds singers on the chorus. It’s an okay song, but in my opinion, it’s not a chart topper. But who knows, other strange things have happened...
Albums
Backstreet Boys
Millennium
The long awaited sequel to their self-titled smash album, Millennium hit the stores on May 18th, and I must say, this is their best yet! "I Want It That Way". their first release, has soared to the top of the charts. And with songs like "Larger Than Life" and " Don't Want You Back", I have to ask myself if this is a sign of things to come.....I hope so!!!!
5ive
5ive
So this CD was an impulse buy by my cousin. Can we say good buy? I had already heard and loved "When The Lights Go Out", but I hadn’t expected the entire album to be that good. Boy was I surprised. 5ive separates themselves from the crowd with their hard hitting attitude, grinding beats, and devilish raps. This CD probably isn’t for the younger crowd, but more 15 and over. Almost ever song has a sexual reference, but their sound is not worth missing. Some of my personal faves are: "When The Lights Go Out", "It’s The Things You Do", "My Song", and "That’s What You Told Me". They also separate themselves by co-writing many of the songs on this CD. Not many other "boy bands" have done that on a debut album…
Review # 2 by Jenna
These five Brits have a load of talent, not to mention great looks. And when these guys say they will go where other bands won't, they aren't kidding. "Slam Dunk" has been named one of the official songs of the NBA, and that's something to be very proud of! But with their other songs like "When The Lights Go Out" and "Until The Time Is Through", these guys are sure to go far. Two thumbs way up for 5ive!!
Ricky Martin
Ricky Martin
Review by bsb loser
This is a
great debut album for him......The only bad song on there is the cup of
life......His song with Madonna is great! I love the ballads on this one! He
has a great Spanenglish sound! I recommend anyone who likes "Livin' La Vida
Loca" and likes ballads to get it! I give it **** stars! (out of 5)
Mandy Moore
Candy
I think this is a great debut song for Mandy. It is reminiscent of Britney Spears “Baby One More Time”, but I like this much better. It is a fun song. It has a catchy tune and chorus. She definitely does not sound like a fifteen year-old, she sounds much older. She will definitely join the current ranks of the up-and-coming lady solo acts, which are becoming more popular. What better way to start off your career but to open for the Backstreet Boys? This will definitely give her career (which is already on it’s way) an added boost, the same way it did for Britney Spears to open up for NSYNC. Can’t wait to hear what the rest of her debut album has in store for us. From what I’ve heard, it shouldn’t disappoint.
98°
98 Degrees and Rising
This CD is a great follow-up to their self-titled album. From beautiful ballads to body movin’ up-tempos, this CD covers it all. They wrote and/or produced several, if not most, tracks on this CD. Some of my favorites are:
"Heat It Up"- a great body movin’ song.
"I Do (Cherish You)"- A wonderful cover of the song originally sung by Mark Wills.
"Because of You"- It's a great mid-tempo, which there are few of on this CD.
The last track on the album "She's Out of My Life"- This song displays their beautiful voices and harmonies in an acappella song.
And yet another great song would be "True to Your Heart." Personally, it's not a fave, but the guys got to work with the great Stevie Wonder on this track. It's also featured on the Disney movie "Mulan" Soundtrack.
This entire CD shows why 98 Degrees is not to be compared with any other boyband or boy group. Their soulful harmonies and awesome up-tempos set them apart. They're in a spotlight all their own....
N*SYNC
N*SYNC
First, I don’t think that these guys can harmonize worth a crap. I’m not sure who it is, but somebody just sticks out ( >cough, cough< Chris >cough, cough<). But getting back to the CD "Tearin’ Up My Heart," " I Want You Back," and "I Drive myself Crazy" are all songs I like that they have released. They picked some good up-tempos and a good ballad to release. As for the rest of the album, I think it could have been better. I think that they could have a more mature sound and stronger vocals. The only one with string vocals is JC (the boy is fine also!!!)
Two of the songs on this album were remakes. "Everything I Own" - was originally sung by Bread and "Sailing"- was originally done by Christopher Cross. Now, I myself cannot compare them to the originals because I haven’t heard them, but a friend has told me that her opinion is that N*SYNC has killed the songs.
On this album they also showcase their own writing abilities. The track "Giddy Up" was co-written by them. Now personally, I think that if this is the way they always write, I’m not gonna have much good to say about the next one....
"Here we go, one more time, everybody’s feeling SICK!. Here we go now ( Yes yes here we go) N*STYNC has got to GO!"
Britney Spears
...Baby One More Time
Well, I have to say that I love "...Baby One More Time." I’ve loved that song since I heard it back when it debuted. I also like "(You Drive Me) Crazy". It’s got a pretty good beat and she sounds pretty good. As for the rest of the album, I can’t say much.
"Soda Pop"- sounds as stupid as the title.
"E-Mail My Heart" - who came up with this??
"The Beat Goes On" - la de da de da...you got anything else??
Something that annoyed me is, who the heck picked these songs?? I mean truly, about three of them are good. And second, she sounds like she trying to sing soul. Sweety, give it up, you’re not black.
Past Releases
Singles
Backstreet Boys
I Want It That Way
Finally, the much awaited release has blown everybody away. DJs across the country have been calling this song a major hit. There are two different versions, which are both being played, but there are minimal differences. I love different things about both songs and think it was a great first release.
Review #2 Song & Video Review By JJ
Okay, for this review, I thought I'd do it in sections... I'll tackle
every guy individually and then overall comments for the song....
Brian - Brian, B-Rok, the Brister..... Can I say sounding like an
angel??? And looking hot??? Whoohoo!!! Brian's voice hasn't changed too
much since the last album and he's still sounding amazing... I love in
the video how you can totally see into his eyes. Those piercing blue
eyes....lol
Nick - Nick has grown up and gone through puberty!!!! He sounds and
looks like a MAN!!! Whoohoo Nickay! Okay, as you can tell, Nick is my
favourite and I am so incredibly impressed with him!!! Okay, the one
thing I noticed is that in several spots in the video, the boy is
laughing so hard. I wonder what was going on on the sidelines that was
so funny.. but once again, he sounds awesome!!!
AJ - Still looking good and sounding awesome. I really like the glasses
and hat. AJ, from this video, has moved into my 2nd fave spot. Go
AJ!!! LOL
Howie - Sweet D is looking and sounding sweeter than ever!!!! I
especially love him in that white outfit.. his part could be one of my
faves in this song.
Kevy Kev - All I have to say about Kev's part is IT'S ABOUT FREAKIN'
TIME!!! The man should have had this opportunity back in like '95 when
the first album came out. He can sing!!! I can't believe they finally
got it through their heads!!! Yay!!! Turtle Power!!!
My Overall Comments - I LOVE THIS SONG!!! AND THE VIDEO!!!! Okay, right
now I would have to say this is my favourite of both song and video by
the boys. Don't get me wrong, I love all of the boys stuff, but I
really love the "new" BSB. I'm so glad they are maturing with their
music and are setting themselves up for a long life together as
musicians. The harmonies in IWITW are outstanding even though the
lyrics are somewhat confusing.... but OMG, they are on FIRE!!!!!! I'm
so proud of them and excited for them!!! Okay, this concludes my
review... long, I know... but I am a girl of many words. LAUGH NOW!!!
5ive
Slam Dunk (Da Funk)
This is the third release from their self-titled debut. It’s also a great "bass boost" song with more raps than either of the previous releases. In a way it’s catchy. If it’s the last song you hear, I guarantee it will stick….
It’s The Things You Do
This song brings a bit of a change. It’s not as fast as "When The Lights Go Out", but it’s not a mellow slow song. It goes from basic mid-tempo to a bit faster on the chorus. This is really easy to move to or just chill. Personally, it just might be my fave….
When The Lights Go Out
I love the great harmonies and great "bass boost" beats that you find on this song. The rap in this also separates their sound from that of the other boy groups. While the song is a little naughty, it’s still great to move to.
98°
The Hardest Thing
This is one of 98's great ballads. It's got beautiful harmonies and wonderful lyrics. Now personally, I liked, actually loved it, when it wasn't released on the radio. But now that it's gotten pretty big, they play it too much. It's still a great song though.
N*SYNC
I Drive Myself Crazy
This song is a step up from the last one, "God Must Have Spent (A Little More Time On You.)" But still, it's not my fave. For 5 guys singing, it sounds like there are girls doing the chorus. (I had to check the credits on this song to make sure there weren’t girls singing on this track.) I can't say much for the video either...
Britney Spears
...Baby One More Time
I love this song. It’s got an awesome beat and she actually sounds ok. I think it’s just something that appeals to everyone. I’ve got to give the girl a bit of credit, she picked a good song to debut with.
Albums
Backstreet Boys
Backstreet Boys
This is their very first album that was not released in the US. To start, this is actually a really good debut. They’ve got some great ballads like: "Anywhere For You," "I’ll Never Break Your Heart," and "Darlin.’" Their up-tempos are just as awesome as their ballads. Some of my faves are: "Get Down," "I Wanna Be With You," and "Don’t Leave Me "(a special track on certain albums). Some of the songs that get on my nerves are "Boys Will Be Boys," "Quit Playing Games (With My Heart)," and "Let’s Have A Party." Sorry, but they just get too annoying.
Time for criticism. First off, when Kevin says "Get close to this" in "Just To Be Close To You," he sounds like he wants to punch somebody. And then AJ saying "Yo, drop the verse" just kills the mood of the song. Then on "Let’s Have A Party," I’m sorry, but Nick’s voice is just a little too high at times. Oh well.
But behind all of my criticism, there is a great album. It was a good start and a great debut.
98°
98 Degrees
Well, this is their self-titled debut. Let’s start where they start, the intro. Nick’s voice is so sexy and it just entrances you. Yum yum yum....As for the rest of the album, I love it. These guys just harmonize so well and all sound so good. Some of my faves are:
"Invisible Man"- so so so soft and light....hmmmm.
"Was It Something I Didn’t Say"- so soft and sad in a way.
"I Wasn’t Over You"- Meet me at the crossroads (Sorry, inside joke I had to add) This is an awesome mid-tempo-slow song.
"Completely"- I LOVE this song. They harmonize so well and sound so great. They also co-wrote this song which is a plus for them. I could listen to it all day long....hmmm.
All in all, it’s an awesome album with many ballads. That seems to be their specialty. But hey, I’m not complaining.
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