Vibes
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The Deal: Born Tremaine Aldon Neverson, Songz has steadily carved his mark on the music world beginning in 2002 when he signed his first recording contract with Atlantic Records. Fast forward eight years and the same singer who had party goers everywhere "Saying Ahhhh...." all summer long is back with the unique soulful style that put him on the map.
The Good: His sexiness alone is enough to make most women invest the $13.99 it costs to purchase Trey Songz new cd "Passion, Pain and Pleasure." But beyond the cover art, which depicts a bedroom-eyed Songz peering through a rain soaked window, is a solid fourth effort by the famed R&B singer.
The album's first single, "Bottoms Up" feat. Nicki Minaj, is currently number two on the Billboard R&B Hot 100 charts and the second single, "We Can't Be Friends," is close behind at number 11.
Although the club hit featuring Minaj ranks higher, Songz is at his best when he belts out slower tunes like "Love Faces," "Please Return My Call," and "Massage." He also adds wind to the sails of his growing sex symbol image by painting musical pictures of erotic encounters on songs like "Red Lipstick" and "Doorbell."
The Bad: Fused with sensual interludes that fuel the album's title, the disc is a definite pick if you're in the mood for a romantic evening, that is if you can get past "The Usual" feat. Drake. It has potential to be one of the ones that grows on you, but initially falls flat courtesy of Drake's predictable flow.
The Verdict: All things considered, "Passion, Pain and Pleasure" delivers the kind of back to basics music R&B is desperate in need of.
