Ghetto Classics [PA] (CD - 2006)

Audio Mixers: Kevin "KD" Davis; Kam Houff; "You Can Ask" Giz; Phil Tan.

Recording information: Da Mill, NJ; Hit Factory, Miami, FL; Wisdon Palace, Jersey City, NJ.

Photographer: Kai Regan.

Arrangers: Bernard Belle; "You Can Ask" Giz.

GHETTO CLASSICS is Jaheim's third effort, an album heavily rooted in traditional R&B, and also one of his strongest. Don't be misled by the "traditional" tag, however. Like most contemporary R&B, Jaheim's music is deeply influenced by hip-hop, and the layered, top-tier production from KayGee (of Naughty by Nature) gives this album a smart, sophisticated sheen that is undeniably 2006. The appearance of rapper Jadakiss on the single "Everytime I Think About Her" further updates the sound.

But the ghost of Marvin Gaye is certainly milling about GHETTO CLASSICS in the form of the smooth, sensual vibe, the album's themes (love songs about commitment, devotion, and family), and in Jaheim's expressive, well-controlled romantic croon. In short, Jaheim mixes the traditional with the contemporary in perfect measure, making his solid third release a sure bet for fans of old- and new-school soul. minimize