Jaheim: The Makings Of A Man

Intro tracks that lay it all on the line and pump the skill and status of the performer are where it's at, at least in rap. But, R&B? On The Makings Of A Man, Jaheim takes a bold step in letting competitors know that he is the "Voice of R&B," from the outset. What will Kelz say? Apparently nothing, he wrote a song on the record!

The duo worked together on "Hush," a tale of infidelity and confusion. If you're getting with your best friend's girlfriend, she better be super fine! Obviously, the inner tensions and difficulties are expressed, and as brilliantly as one would expect from an R. Kelly arrangement. The song certainly differs in approach from the other 11 tracks on the record, but Jaheim handles the vocals without issue and makes the track his own.

Jaheim asks, "Have you ever thought about what you did, when you were a kid?" Yes, often; thanks for asking Mr. "Voice of R&B." Those were happy days, full of climbing trees and shocking my brother with the dog's electric fence collar. What's that? Your childhood reminiscences are about mistakes? Either way, "Have You Ever," is a standout. Not so much a sensitive thug, but more so a thoughtful bloke, the Newark crooner expresses regret of his arduous youth. "Life of a Thug," reminds of previous Jaheim hits, balancing a smooth backing track and street flavored lyrics with ease.

Jaheim cannot only sing with a smooth passion, he also seems to be an expert at bagging other dudes chicks. Apart from "Hush," he also gets into something forbidden on "Lonely." Women, as with all R&B albums, are the primary fodder. As with previous efforts, Jaheim oscillates from player to faithful lover. He is equally adept at discussing both thug tendencies, and trying to be the perfect gentleman. "Never," has him making promises of perfect companionship and dropping the records best line, "never would this player hang his jersey up and leave the game." Lyrics like that make Jaheim, well, Jaheim. Only he can make such frivolousness sound thoughtful and pleasant. The sentiments of "Never" are echoed on the albums lone collaboration, "I've Changed," featuring Keyshia Cole. The two sound ok together, but nothing as fantastic as previous work with Mary J. The lyrics on aforementioned song are also a little too cheesy to be taken seriously. "Ghetto Pilates?" Hmmm... this is the albums weakest cut.

As a singer, Jaheim excels on slow to mid-tempo tracks. Keeping to this comfort zone works, but limits the range of his material. A slight upgrade from Ghetto Classics, The Makings Of A Man does not reach the consistency of Still Ghetto. Jaheim still has some growth in him, but the makings of the true voice of R&B might just be there.

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