Mint Condition Albums (7)
What The Critics Say
It's more than a little ironic how, back in 1991, Mint Condition were considered something of a novelty -- being an R&B band in the truest sense -- when they've now outlasted just about every group, producer-driven or not, regardless of style, that formed around the same time. Nearly 20 years in the business, Mint Condition are on just their sixth studio album, but identifying a truly weak link in their discography is impossible. The consistency continues on E-Life, a Mint Condition release as durable as any other. Opening track "Baby Boy Baby Girl," featuring Anthony Hamilton, was a bold choice for a first single, as it's a spirited, touching tribute to kids' unconditional love for their dads. Though there are other songs with similarly uncommon forms of inspiration, much of the album deals in universal romantic matters that just about any listener can find relatable: being suspicious of cheating on "Somethin'," enduring relationships on "Just Can't Believe," communication issues on "Nothing Left to Say," and dead ends on "Back and Forth," a driving jam that deserves heavy rotation on every adult R&B station. And, of course, there are a couple romantic ballads, like "Queen of Come Here Go Away," which recalls the Isley Brothers' spaced-out, sparsely arranged quiet storms. Again, the band holds back on the natural impulse to show off, never failing to serve the song first. ~ Andy Kellman, All Music Guide
'Live from the 9:30 Club'
Release Date 2/7/2006
Tracks 14
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'Livin' the Luxury Brown'
Release Date 4/26/2005
Tracks 18
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What The Critics Say
Livin' the Luxury Brown comes five and a half years after Mint Condition's previous album, Life's Aquarium. An absence of that length would put the average group under a tremendous amount of pressure, especially when a rabid fan base has been left waiting so long. In another sense, Mint Condition is under no pressure whatsoever. Now on their own label, and even more unique than they were in the '90s -- in the entirely self-contained sense of producing, writing, and playing their own instruments -- sales and competition are no longer significant factors. At this stage in their career, all they really care about is making music and playing it live for their followers. And it shows: while occasionally lagging due to the meandering and indulgence that often comes with boundless freedom, Livin' the Luxury Brown is the group's fifth straight (out of five) strong album. You can tell they've spent a good amount of their time away soaking up more influences from the '60s and '70s, but they've obviously kept up with modern R&B as well. Even a couple unexpected rock-out moments (especially the middle patch of "Fallin' Apart") are pulled off with a tremendous amount of conviction. They've done their early mentors, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, proud. ~ Andy Kellman, All Music Guide
What The Critics Say
With their fourth album and first for Elektra, Mint Condition tightens up their songwriting substantially, making Life's Aquarium one of their best efforts to date. The group's melodies and instrumental interplay are focused and confident, and that assurance is also apparent in the album's tone: Where past Mint Condition releases were highlighted by smooth romantic material, the high points of Life's Aquarium tend to be in the form of sexy loverman come-ons. It's refreshing to hear the group broadening their range somewhat, but the album's real strength is simply the fact that Mint Condition has cut down on the aimless meandering that often cluttered their past releases, helping to make the songs more consistently memorable. ~ Steve Huey, All Music Guide
'Definition of a Band'
Release Date 9/24/1996
Tracks 18
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What The Critics Say
Mint Condition's third album, Definition of a Band is the smoothest effort yet from the swingbeat group. Again, lead singer Stokley Williams steals the show with his surging, passionate vocals, which are so affecting that you often wish that the songwriting was more distinguished, along the lines of the hit single "What Kind of Man Would I Be." ~ Leo Stanley, All Music Guide
'From the Mint Factory'
Release Date 10/19/1993
Tracks 16
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What The Critics Say
The second release from Mint Condition follows closely on the heels of their successful debut. Principal vocalist Stokely has good presence, projects sincerity and earnestness on love songs, and reflects Stevie Wonder's influence. The backing vocals, arrangements, lyrics and production style aren't overloaded with electronics, strings or any other devices, and they balance a traditional soul sensibility with a 1990s approach. Several numbers are enjoyable, although none are overpowering or remarkable. Sometimes they move into light funk or new jack, but Mint Condition is best at sentimental, breezy love material. ~ Ron Wynn, All Music Guide
'Meant to Be Mint'
Release Date 6/11/1991
Tracks 12
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What The Critics Say
The debut album from the Minneapolis-based sextet featured the lackluster uptempo track "Are You Free," which did manage to secure the number 55 position on the charts. However, this album also featured two heart-wrenching ballads: "Breakin' My Heart (Pretty Brown Eyes)" and "Forever in Your Eyes." Led by Stokley Williams' animated tenor, the former is set in a suspenseful rhythm arrangement; the song builds momentum in the interlude, allowing Williams to explode vocally in an emotional testimony. The single sold over 500,000 copies, pacing the charts 34 weeks and peaking at number three and number six on the Billboard R&B and pop charts, respectively. "Forever in Your Eyes" offers another compassionate vocal delivery by Williams with similar arrangements, but still maintaining its own feeling. It inched its way to the number seven spot on the R&B charts in 17 weeks. The remainder of the album is extremely energized. ~ Craig Lytle, All Music Guide
