"Don't Wanna Try," a single that wound up cracking the Top 20 in 2003, is probably responsible for allowing
Frankie J to bring in the likes of songwriters/producers
Bryan-Michael Cox and
Mario Winans, along with features from
Baby Bash and Swisha House heavyweight
Paul Wall, for follow-up
The One. The singer continues to work closely with Happy Perez, but
Cox's presence on not one but three tracks -- including "How to Deal," a clone of
Usher's
Cox-penned "Burn" in both sound and sentiment -- adds significant heft to his catalog.
What's a Man to Do? tended to falter whenever
J broke from his sweet, yearning (not whining) manner to adopt a tougher tone, but he smartly leaves that for
Bash's and
Wall's guest spots here.
The One is a step forward in every aspect. Lead single "Obsession (No Es Amor)" shot up to the Top Ten upon release, only solidifying
J's mainstream presence. ~ Andy Kellman