Traces of My Lipstick
click the image to get it in cd-cover size
| Release Date: |
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| Label: |
Sony |
| Rating: |
4.5 |
Description: Two years from the two-triple-zero and there's still a huge gap between the musical tastes of black folk and white folk. Case in point: Xscape. Despite having gone platinum and being two CDs deep (
Traces of My Lipstick is their third), chances are that their music and names would register a big head scratch in most melanin-challenged homes. Part of that may be image--these ladies have been known to look a tad, uh, rough--or that the Atlanta-based group has been handed songs (usually by the unctuous Jermaine Dupri) that aren't as slick or pop-friendly as some of those other gals' hits. Not so on this CD, which finds the women mainly concentrating on sexy ballads, most of which have to do with playing around or being played on, and decidedly mainstream material like "The Arms of the One Who Loves You." Written and produced by Diane "That's a Hit!" Warren, the track is all blown-up passion and ersatz soul: all the better for breaking Xscape's strong and sultry harmonies out of the confines of black radio.
--Amy Linden
Tracklist of Traces of My Lipstick
Reviews:
GREAT ALBUM
Although Xscape doesn't have the powerhouse harmonizing capabilities like En Vogue, these girls prove that they could've compete with the big time girl groups. I haven't heard the first two albums but this I'm sure is the best of all. Some or most of the songs were produced by Jermaine Dupri which I think made a great colaboration. Some artist and producers have great chemistry and I think Jermaine did with Xscape. This is an album where I could listen to every song without fastforwarding to the next track. It's a shame that they've broken up with the record of three platinum albums to their name. Even though they're no more, this album is a must buy. Kandi is the only one that released a solo album after the break up. Latocha's solo album was supposed to be released also but didn't. I'm sure there are so many reasons why this group split, but their voices and their music surely wasn't one of them. Overall, GREAT ALBUM.
my go to bed music
I put this CD on at night when its time to go to bed, not because its boring or bland. Its full of Slow Jams that make up thier own quiet storm set. Personal favorite song is The Softest Place.Other cuts I enjoy Am I dreaming,One of those love songs,My little secret,and Runaround is hot as well. The Arms of the one Who loves you is also a stand out ballad. When is LaTocha Scott putting out her solo cd..that voice is a gift. Check out her songs on the Big Mamas House soundtrack as well, love the one thats a duet with Chante Moore!
Perfect Xscape...............................
This album was the highlight of their career.The songs are key and their harmonies are on point.Songs "My Little Secret", "All I Need" , "Hold On" and "Am I Dreaming" are all pure real good R&&B music. "Top picks "Softest Place On Earth" and "The Arms Of The One Who Loves You" are both the top picks of the album where they shine the most.
If more groups areound these days could have harmonies are great songs like Xscape they would have more longevity.Even after this album the group broke up and is getting back together.Im sure they will be better than ever after their return.
OVERALL GRADE = 95/100 A+