The Breakthrough

by

Mary J. Blige

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If there is justice in the universe, Mary J's latest release will definitely introduce her to a much larger audience and bring her a truckload of awards, along with multi-platinum sales. There is, no doubt, that the singer poured all of her considerable vocal and songwriting talents into this most personally revealing and musically satisfying album. Co-writing no less than eleven of the listed sixteen songs (there is a "hidden" bonus cut included at the end of track 16), Blige is a spokesperson for women, as well as a "therapist" that can give good counsel to men as they deal the topsy-turvy relations game.

On an album wherein all the cuts are outstanding, my favorites include "Enough Cryin'", a triumph of writing, Blige's trademark forceful vocal performance, brilliant orchestral arrangement, and extraordinary background accompaniment; "About You," featuring Will.i.am and legendary Nina Simone, is another brilliantly orchestrated track; the poetic "Be Without You"; "Good Woman," a thought-provoking and toe-tapping message to the young sistahs; and the double-threat of "Take Me as I Am" and "Baggage".

"MJB Da MVP" chronicles Blige's triumphant fourteen-year (and counting) career, expressing the singer's highs and lows, as well as her appreciation of her fans.

There are not enough superlatives that can be heaped upon "Ain't Really Love." This is the kind of song that Aretha could've done in her prime and, obviously, the "Queen's" scepter has been passed to Mary.

The gospel-influenced "I Found My Everything," co-written by featured vocalist Raphael Saadig, has a Prince-thing about it, musically and lyrically.

"Father in You" is sheer perfection in more ways than one as a tribute to fathers and strong men.

And the last (credited) cut with U2 ("One") demonstrates that Blige can hold her own (and on occasion, overpower) the best on the world's musical stage.

Another bonus of the release is the breathtaking photography and attire of the singer.

Blige has never looked sexier and more captivating.

Mariah Carey best be glad that this album was not released earlier in the year.

Mary J's "emancipation" is far superior to "Mimi's"!

If I had one word to describe the majority of this album it'll be "Tha Knock". On a serious tip, Mary's background music makes you scream, "That's that Knock." For the most part this album is ok. It's certainly not terrible but does not stand out as a legendary piece. What I love most about this album is the purity, honesty and sincerity it contains. Mary's lyrics are filled with reality. I'm not a die hard MJB fan but I do have this album. The vocals are barely there. But what takes this album over the edge is the sincerity in her voice. Simply stated you feel Mary through her music and although her vocals are not the greatest you listen and will continue to listen because Mary is real. Mary is the reigning queen of R&B for that simpe fact.

Stand Out Tracks (yes, in that order)

One

Can't Get enough

Be Without You

Can't Hide From Luv

I found My Everything

Take Me As I Am