Ecstasy

by

Avant

Edit

Though it doesn't sound like Avant is spending much time trying to be creative or original, his voice continues to shine.

In an attempt to follow in R Kelly's footsteps, Avant bases much of this set on romance, or to be blunt - sex. I thought we already had enough music directed towards making love, but apparently there is more of a need for it than I imagined. While I was initially disappointed in this album, there are a few great songs that keep it in my CD player.

"Sorry" and "Thinkin' Bout You" are both strong productions, bragging of solid smooth vocals outlined by lusciously soulful melodies. Both are utterly relaxing and seem to imprint themselves in your mind for hours. The first single from the album, "Makin' Good Love," hops around to Steve Huff's piano-driven track while Avant continues to lust for human flesh. "Don't Say No, Just Say Yes" almost brings back the Isley Brothers, and is yet another track directed more for those making babies than those sporting their headphones.

The most interesting song is undoubtedly "Jack & Jill," where Avant carries "Jill" up his "hill." While the lyrics are simply corny if written on paper, the tune tends to reach out and grab you after you take it in for a few minutes. The voice of a dramatic piano fits well with the theme to "You Ain't Right," where the artist slams the door on a cheater.

The album closes out nicely with the standout song, "Suicide," Another of Huff's relaxing but manageably semi-dramatic grooves. A tasty acoustic guitar inspires most of this track, while Avant speaks of the hardships of being without his lady.

All in all, the album is not a bust, but if being a bust was a basketball game, this would be a barn burner. Songs like "Six In Da Morning" and "Love School" are a far, far cry from what Avant could be doing with his career, and with his awesome voice. Hopefully he'll decide to follow in the footsteps of Stevie Wonder and Marvin Gaye instead of focusing so much on the popularity of R Kelly and Keith Sweat. We already have enough of those types.

Avant's sophmoric effort didn't grab me the way I thought it would. In fact, it left feeling slightly confused. I remember when he found his groove with his first recording MY THOUGHTS. Now THAT was a CD to brag about. This one sounds like he is trying to be someone he wasn't meant to be. His voice and the numerous hip-hop hooks didn't mix well for me. It was almost like listening to a second-rate R. Kelly. The only saving grace was his ballads. Now they were right on time, at least, the majority were. If I have to hear MAKIN' GOOD LOVE one more time, there will be major hair pulling, starting with my ears! I would only advise the most dedicated fan to invest, otherwise, be very wary.