Xclusive R&B [Audio CD] Xclusive R & B

This triple-disc set from the Union Square label sifts through roughly 15 years of popular R&B and pop-rap singles, at least as the English saw them. Beyond that somewhat loose theme, there's little apparent rhyme or reason behind the selection process, but with 45 inclusions, the average fan of modern R&B is bound to obtain a few songs he or she has been wanting, in addition to being introduced to a similar number of likeable inclusions. Highlights include SWV's "So into You," Monica's "Don't Take It Personal (Just One of Dem Days)," Aaliyah's "Back and Forth," V's "Anotha Phase," Dominic "Ski" Oakenfull's "Hang On," and Foreign Exchange's "Come Around." One negative aspect is that quite a few tracks are so laid-back and light on features that they fade into the background after a few seconds. ~ Andy Kellman, Rovi