Though there's no breakout hit the quality of "Too Close," Next's sophomore album Welcome II Nextasy is smoother and features a better overall production than their debut. The trio's version of hip-hop-soul is just as explicit as before; from "Cybersex" to "Let's Make a Movie" to "Banned from TV," Next proves themselves the Barry White of the '90s. Still, the hit single "Wifey" and "Beauty Queen" are less sex-obsessed than Next has been in the past, and the group keeps their tenuous rap credentials intact with the opener "What U Want" (featuring Beanie Sigel). ~ John Bush, All Music Guide
Next's debut album Rated Next is an impressive collection of contemporary hip-hop-influenced urban soul. Occasionally, the group may get a little too "risqué" for some tastes, but lead singer R.L. is so smooth and charismatic that he can seduce unwilling listeners. With more consistent material, he'd be able to win over even more fans, but about half of the record illustrates that Next is no flash in the pan. ~ Leo Stanley, All Music Guide