Ne-Yo
Because Of You
Def Jam/Universal


Ne-Yo's 2006 debut album 'In My Own Words' was a much lauded r'n'b release, and catapulted him into stardom in urban music. However, much like other urban artists such as Kanye West, he has been ghost writing for many other r'n'b artists such as Rhianna and Beyonce prior to his solo career as a singer.

With this his second album release, he continues on the winning formula that got him his early successes and appeal. This is perhaps more evident in tracks such as Do You, Make It Work, and Go On Girl which are reminiscent of his international and award winning hit So Sick. However, he does extend his song writing and production skills with the lead off single, Because Of You - a pop friendly, up tempo urban soul number that is already making waves in the charts. He also makes good use of collaborators with the omnipresent Jay-Z on the smooth groove of Crazy, and with Jennifer Hudson (of 'Dreamgirls' fame) on the sultry old school r'n'b vibe of Leaving Tonight.

However, you can't but help but wonder whether or not Ne-Yo is trying to emulate one of his musical heroes in Prince with Addicted and Sex With My Ex, which sadly comes across as more of a lacklustre imitation rather than an innovative creation.

It is fair to say that Ne-Yo has played it relatively safe with his sophomore album. Though not overly impressive, this album will still have universal appeal especially within the pop and r'n'b charts; and with future song writing opportunities with Celine Dion, Whitney Houston and Jennifer Hudson, his stock will just continue to rise.

Leo Varona