| Babyface - MTV Unplugged NYC 1997 |
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| Music Disc Reviews Audio CD | |
| Written by Jason Karsh | |
| Tuesday, 25 November 1997 | |
Performance Quality = 4.5 Sound Quality = 7.5 We were excited when this album found its way to our doorstep. Not simply because Babyface has become the hit-making machine he has in the last few years, but because we assumed that this would be Babyface, by himself, getting down. And, much like The Artist Formerly Known As Prince, it is often overlooked that as good as Babyface can be for others, he is equally as good, if not better by himself. So, happy like Christmas morning, we let this baby spin and . . . Suffice it to say our excitement rapidly turned from 'oh boy,' to 'uh oh.' Included on this album are Eric Clapton, Shanice Wilson, K-Ci & JoJo (formerly of Jodeci), and Stevie Wonder and guess what? They're not there to watch, they're there to sing--except Clapton who thankfully keeps his mouth shut and plays a great supporting character. This album sounds good and is recorded well but it's concept is ridiculous, Babyface barely sings three songs alone. Not to say that 'Whip Appeal' and the down-tempo 'The Day (You Gave Me A Son)' aren't good, but this album is a serious disappointment for Babyface fans to put it mildly. Our only guess is that MTV, in it's infinite wisdom, was unsure of letting Babyface go it alone and pitched in some big guest stars. Which has its merits, few around here would miss the chance to hear Stevie Wonder live, but this is supposed to be a Babyface album. What MTV seemingly fails to realize is that Babyface is no Bob Hope, but rather quite capable on his own. Like this article? Bookmark and share with any of the sites below.        |
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