98° may have been typecast alongside
the Backstreet Boys and
*NSYNC thanks to their dashing good looks, but their music set them apart from such highly polished pop. Constructing a style that's rooted in sultry R&B and soul grooves,
98° established themselves as a strong vocal group and
The Collection charts the band's musical maturation since their 1997 self-titled debut. From the heart-rending "Was It Something I Didn't Say?" and "I Do (Cherish You)" to the sexy Latin party of "Give Me Just One Night (Una Noche),"
The Collection captures the highlights. A hidden treasure featured in Disney's Mulan, "True to Your Heart" is one of
98°'s finest moments. The collaboration with
Stevie Wonder is a sophisticated match for the group and an equal favorite among fans. "Thank God I Found You" with
Mariah Carey is also an added bonus.
Nick Lachey and
Jessica Simpson's dramatic duet on "Where You Are" is missing and that might disappoint some fans, but most will be able to overlook such a move.
The Collection is a solid package and loyalists who've followed them from the beginning will be pleased. ~ MacKenzie Wilson