Tyler Perry's Madea's Family Reunion (CD - 2006)

For the soundtrack to the sequel of his hit film DIARY OF A MAD BLACK WOMAN, director/screenwriter/star Tyler Perry once again opts for a well-selected set of gospel and R&B. While the DIARY soundtrack focused primarily on contemporary artists, MADEA'S FAMILY REUNION brings in classics such as Al Green's beautifully funky "Love & Happiness" and, appropriately enough, the O'Jays' "Family Reunion." Other highlights include the hip-hop/gospel fusion of LL Cool J and Mary Mary's "We're Gonna Make It" and Kem's smooth, spare "Tonight." If Perry's soundtracks prove to be as popular as his movies, this collection should be a smash.

The soundtrack of Tyler Perry's Madea's Family Reunion is a pleasant blend of the old-school and the new and developing artists of contemporary R&B. The familiarity of the classic Al Green cut "Love and Happiness" and the O'Jays' "Family Reunion" evenly balances new selections from Kem, Johnny Gill (don't call it a comeback just yet), and Chaka Khan. Even without a movie surrounding the disc, Madea's Family Reunion could still stand alone as a strong compilation to play during family reunions or summer get-togethers. ~ Rob Theakston minimize