The Lincolnian

Issue date: 11/5/07 Section: Entertainment

Ne-Yo

It has been said that it can't be better the second time around. It is quite the opposite when it relates to Ne-Yo's sophomore album, "Because of You." In fact, it is almost too good to be a sophomore album. Ne-Yo definitely bypassed the sophomore album "curse" with his brilliant songwriting skills. Ne-Yo's album begins with the soulful croons in his first single "Because of You" which sounds inspired by Michael Jackson. It goes on to mellow songs like the thought provoking "Do You," in which Ne-Yo has a heart spilling conversation with an ex-girlfriend. The album goes on to the emotionally inspired "Leaving Tonight" featuring Dreamgirl's Jennifer Hudson. Though there is no clear theme to the album, it is most definitely not disappointing.

[**** 4 out of 5 stars]

50 Cent

50 Cent's new album is shockingly disappointing. It feels rushed and half-hearted compared to his preceding album, "The Massacre." It's almost like he has lost the "hunger" of the new artist trying to make a name in the Hip-Hop industry, and has replaced it with a cocky half-hearted swagger that is only self-praised.

[** 2 out of 5 stars]

Chrisette Michele

With a style reminiscent of Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Holiday, Chrisette Michele's first album makes you impatiently anticipate future albums. The girl who has sung the hook on Jay-Z's "Lost One" single has definitely stepped out on her own with this engaging debut album. The album is a good mix of Old-School Jazz meets Modern Day Neo-Soul. The straight Rhythm and Blues single meshes well with the more alternative inspired songs like "Best of Me". It is a d must have to add to your CD collection.

[***** 5 out of 5 stars]

Keyshia Cole

Since her debut album some two years ago, Keyshia Cole is back on the scene with her sophomore album "Just like You." With a more mature sound, she starts her CD with a dramatic song produced by "The Runners."

Didn't I tell you?

Back to the basics, Keyshia hits the scene with a swing type of ballad. A very home and soulful sound behind deep violins, she expresses herself and lets her feelings flow. Keyshia once again comes with another ballad that has listeners reminded of her talent. Keyshia has a ballad ready for every young girl to sing for years to come. Of course, Keyshia brings club songs to the table with "Shoulda Let You Go" and her lead single "Wanna BE" which she performs with Missy Elliot and Lil Kim. The song tells ladies to keep their heads up and "do them" if their man wants to act up. This CD is very well rounded and shows Miss Cole's maturity with her wide range of vocal and musical beats. I don't see a "sophomore jenks" being a problem for Keyshia.

Kanye West

Grammy nominated multi platinum super producer/ rap star Kanye West is back with his third CD, "Graduation." In competition with 50 cent for the Hip-Hop crown, Kanye West brings his highly equipped formula with samples and heavy drum kits. Kanye expresses what has been going on in his life, summarizing his past two years with his lead single "Can't Tell Me Nothing." West goes into an innovative type of sound with a little assistance with label mate John Legend. He wraps up his CD with a tribute to Jay-Z titled, "Big Brother." This track explains how everything went down from the time Kanye received his deal until now. He thanks Jay for everything. Even though this CD is well thought out, it's a replication for a typical Kanye West album.

"American Gangster Does it His Way"

Ladies and Gentlemen: Jay-Z is dropping another album November 6, 2007; no one saw this one coming. Jay-Z is back at it again. His new album "America Gangster" is inspired by the new movie American Gangster starring Denzel Washington.

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