All arguments aside, this album is terrible. And I didn't think things could get any worse after the train wreck that was Masterpiece Theatre (and I gave THAT album one star). And also, let's look at the facts. En Vogue lost yet another member (Maxine Jones) and then jumped to an independent label, which resulted in a pretty predictable bland album (Silktime, anyone?). And the newcomer is a songstress named Rhona Bennett, and I really think this EV revolving door needs to be closed and locked. Because I listened to Rhona's vocals, and she really can't sing. But then again, Cindy and Terry's vocals aren't anything to celebrate either (and I mean as of PRESENT, not as of PAST).

Lyrics on this album are nothing special, as shown on songs like "Ooh La La", "Everyday", and "Ooh Boy". And "All You See" has stupid verses like: "Even if you're standing six-foot-three/Or three feet tall with no teeth/Have respect for me." And the way "Ez-a-lee" (easily) covers the kick-your-man-to-the-curb topic makes me think it should have been titled "Laz-a-lee".

Production is also a fault here, which may or may not have to do with the fact that the ladies produced the album themselves. "Heaven" lazily lifts the music from the Staple Singers' "Let's Do It Again" (the same song lifted for Xscape's "Just Kickin' It"). And when I heard "Losin My Mind", I asked, "Is that Rocky & Bullwinkle music?" Moreover, that song sounds like it was taped off the radio or something. By the way, does anyone know whom that man is singing in "All You See" and "How Do I Get Over"? Actually, never mind; I don't want to know.

I didn't even know this album existed until a month or so ago when I happened to come across it, and now I'm sorry I did (even though I only borrowed it). If you're thinking of buying it, you should do what track 8 says and "Stop", because this Soul Flower definitely isn't worth picking.

Anthony Rupert


Thank You Terry, Cindy & Rhona: You Are True Soul Flowers!   May 26, 2004
 7 out of 7 found this review helpful

I must commend Terry and Cindy for "Holding On" to their dreams and not giving up on En Vogue, for this CD is truly amazing, as are all LPs with the name EN VOGUE attached. Rhona is a GOD-send and I hope she's here to stay, the lady's got chops and adds a special spark to an already legendary group.

Every song is immaculate from track 1 to 15 and show alot of heart and soul, which En Vogue is known for. All the songs are great, but my personal favorites are OOH BOY, DISSED HIM (a future hit), I DO LOVE YOU (PIECE OF MY HEART), ALL YOU SEE (a future hit), LOSIN' MY MIND and A MILLION DIFFERENT WAYS. But again, the entire CD is on fire.

The ladies show that age is not a factor in their delivery of each song, as their voices sound as good today as they did with their debut album, BORN TO SING. Rhona adds her own flavor to the group by being fun and sassy, while remaining a lady. She's an incredible actress, singer and songwriter and I'm glad she's a member of my all-time favorite group. In person she's quite beautiful and exotic looking, so if the music thing doesn't pan out, she'd make a great runway model (no lie!).

Even through all the line-up changes, Terry and Cindy are still the voices of En Vogue, weathering some storms and even harsher criticisms to keep the group going, but coming out smelling like roses in the end. I thank them for their persistence and dedication to what they love, performing and singing. To really appreciate these talented women, every fan (and use that word loosely) should treat themselves to seeing the ladies perform live, YOU WON'T BE DISAPPOINTED, 'cause the ladies still got it!

Again, thank you Terry, Cindy & Rhona, you are true SOUL FLOWERS in every sense of the words. Love you and love the album, keep it comin'.

An eternal fan and supporter,
James.


Not Their Best, But....   March 12, 2004
 6 out of 7 found this review helpful

Still a fine cd and recommended. I still think they miss Dawn Robinson, if only for that certain "attitude" that she exuded and inspired the group dynamic with. They haven't replaced her yet, considering Rhona is the second cd in a row that En Vogue has a new member. Regardless, this cd has some good moments. "Ooh Boy", with it's Chic bassman-extrordinaire Bernard Edwards-inspired bass licks; "All You See," kind of a "Free Your Mind" for women, and "Everyday," the girls version of the Staples "Let's Do It Again." The cd does try to be a little "gangsta," and it doesn't work. En Vogue doesn't need to stoop to saying the word "sh*t" in "I Dissed Him"-- they have the vocal talent--and that is in fine form here, as one would expect. Good cd, but doesn't have that one huge single on it. I still love them anyway, and have always considered Destiny's Child to be a poor man's En Vogue.


A long time fan review   March 17, 2004
 6 out of 6 found this review helpful

As an avid En Vogue fan since their first album in 1990, I always look forward to a new record from the ladies. Although, the Christmas CD failed to capture a synergy which i now assign blame to their temporary member, Amanda. EV, with new member Rhona, seem to get this one right and their voices gell to produce a harmonous sound.
I've listened to this Album about 10-15 times and must say I really enjoy it. The Album does not take chances...which is just fine by me because it's one enjoyable 15 song ride.
Ooh boy (track 3)is definitely geared toward mainstream and sounds best while being played loud. At home, in your car or on a dance floor, it is best served at high volumes where the bass can go deep (and it does). Track 4 is a nice diversion and cleverly written (my favorite).
If your an En Vogue fan, don't hesitate--buy it, if your a smooth R&B fan---its worth the price of admission, if your just looking for music that will make your head bob and weave--- get it.
Overall, EV has delivered a witty, well produced and fan satisfying 15 tracks of good music and I can't ask for more. Thanks EV3 and keep it coming!!