The Writing's on the Wall [Australia Bonus CD] - Destiny's Child

With their second album, Writing's on the Wall, Destiny's Child still suffers from slightly uneven songwriting, but it's nevertheless an assured step forward for the girl group. Not only are they maturing as vocalists, they are fortunate to work with such skilled, talented producers as Kevin "Shekspere" Biggs, Rodney Jerkins, Dwayne Wiggins, Chad Elliot, Daryl Simmons, and Missy Elliott, who all give the quartet rich, varied music upon which to work their charm. So, even when the album fails to deliver memorable songs, it always sounds alluring, thanks to the perfect combination of vocalists and producers. [The Australian release includes a bonus track -- "Get on the Bus" -- and a four-track bonus disc featuring "Independent Woman, Pt. 1," "Independent Woman, Pt. 2," "8 Days of Christmas," and "No, No, No, Pt. 2."] ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine, All Music Guide