Next's debut album
Rated Next is an impressive collection of contemporary hip-hop-influenced urban soul. Occasionally, the group may get a little too "risqué" for some tastes, but lead singer R.L. is so smooth and charismatic that he can seduce unwilling listeners. With more consistent material, he'd be able to win over even more fans, but about half of the record illustrates that
Next is no flash in the pan. [
Rated Next was issued in a "clean" version with all profanity removed.] ~ Leo Stanley