Kenny Lattimore Albums (5)
What The Critics Say
Kenny Lattimore and Chanté Moore released their last solo albums, respectively, in 2001 and 2000, but their first album as a married couple -- 2003's Things That Lovers Do -- did well enough to warrant a follow-up before either singer resumed their solo career. The first disc of Uncovered/Covered is more like an enjoyable married couples' seminar set to the kind of lush and occasionally slightly toughened productions they've fronted since the '90s. They sing about the downs as well as the ups, but they keep it elegant and romantic the whole time. There are only two covers, despite the album's title; it's not surprising that they handle L.T.D.'s "Love Ballad" much better than Sade's less expressive "No Ordinary Love." The second disc is dominated by contemporary gospel material produced by Fred Hammond, who casts his typically bright sheen over everything, including slapping/snapping basslines, humming keyboards, and jubilant, layered vocal arrangements. Lattimore sounds as good as ever through the whole program, but his long-under-recognized wife shines so well, ably approaching nearly every song at a different angle, that he's pretty much outclassed. That all said, a handful of the tracks are second rate and could've been cut to make this a very tight single-disc release. Both this and Things That Lovers Do are more than strong enough, however, to warrant a third Lattimore/Moore album, not to mention a second gospel album, even though fans of both singers must be a little antsy for secular solo albums by now. In the liner notes, the couple states, "We challenge you to look for more than a handsome/beautiful face -- more than sex appeal -- and more than money in a mate." Yes, take it from a couple that just happens to be extremely attractive and well-off. You also have to love one of the inside photos, where Lattimore appears to be glaring at the camera as if to say, "I know you're not coveting your neighbor's wife." ~ Andy Kellman, All Music Guide
'Things That Lovers Do'
Release Date 2/11/2003
Tracks 12
Label Arista
See Album Tracklist and Review
What The Critics Say
Just because Kenny Lattimore's Weekend was executive produced by über-producer Antonio "LA" Reid does not guarantee a hit factory. Sure, the music on this R&B affair is comparable to anything else out there in the genre (think Jagged Edge, but not as soulful or infectious). However, calling this album "comparable" is generous. Weekend, with its bland arrangements, cookie-cutter R&B sound, and lyrical vacuity, is a yawn. Hookin' up, the inability to breathe without "the one," and other hackneyed themes abound on this banal album. There isn't enough groove or vibrato, shirt-clutching vocals to keep listeners from growing bored, and fast. Find something else to do this weekend. ~ Liana Jonas, All Music Guide
What The Critics Say
Despite its lumbering length and some slick, late-'90s R&B formalities, Kenny Lattimore's second album is a real treat. Combining smooth grooves with an even silkier voice, Lattimore shifts from bedroom operator to new jack king with an ease that seems neither forced nor affected on From the Soul of Man. The R&B stew is made even heartier by a couple of inspired covers, even if they're not totally successful in their execution (who knew that "While My Guitar Gently Weeps" could be so sexy?). When the album tosses in basic contemporary soul ingredients -- songs that are more finely chiseled than actually tuneful, occasional robotic singing, glossy production that's hiding something -- it flows into mind-numbing conventionality. But when Lattimore gently soaks in the material (nearly all of it penned by him), From the Soul of Man is truly a spirited affair. ~ Michael Gallucci, All Music Guide
What The Critics Say
Despite an inconsistent collection of songs, Kenny Lattimore's eponymous debut album is a promising record, showcasing his smooth voice to fine effect. His singing and the slick production makes the weaker numbers enjoyable, but when he's given a good song -- such as the singles "Just What It Takes" and "Never Too Busy" -- the depth of Lattimore's talent becomes apparent. ~ Leo Stanley, All Music Guide
