The "Candy Rain" crew is back, with some big--and we do mean big--talent looking out for them. Big as in "large" (in every sense of that term) as in Heavy D, rap-master supreme and co-producer of this well-realized second effort. The sound is still modern vocal-group soul, with a decidedly funky disposition. It's an approach that's evolved from the Coasters and the Temptations straight on through to Bell Biv Devoe, Boyz II Men, Solo, and beyond.
The opening track, "Stay," puts Soul for Real right in that mix, defining both style and method: a lead vocalist steps in front of the big beat and jams, while the rest of the group pushes the harmonic envelope with backing vocals. Heavy D himself raps, his typical old-school charm intact, on "You Just Don't Know." And we're treated to a beautifully stripped-down, four-guys-on-a-street-corner cover of Al Green's "Let's Stay Together." This is group that knows how to keep its talent right out in front, where it belongs.