Didn't See Me Coming

Album Review

When Keith Sweat first appeared, some folks didn't know what to make of him because of his unique style. Like Teddy Riley, Sweat was a pioneer of new jack, the genre that helped lay the foundation for the R&B/hip-hop and street music of the '90s. On his first album of the 21st century, Didn't See Me Coming, the singer showcases his versatility and adaptability. The sinewy "Whatcha Like" seductively slinks along. The softly chugging "Real Man" has Sweat singing to a woman who's out to get his ends that "you wouldn't know a real man if he was staring in your face." "Caught Up" is a vintage Keith Sweat slow jam with its "I was played" theme and its on this track the singer's vocal maturity is probably most apparent. Sweat supplies the album with some of his trademark "beggin'" songs in "Only Wanna Please You" and "Why U Treat Me So Cold." Lil Mo shares vocals with the singer on the "lonely superstar" duet ballad, "I'll Trade (A Million Bucks)." Sweat duets with David Hollister on the "money can't buy ya love"-themed "Don't Have Me." After five platinum albums (three of which went multi-platinum), two gold singles (four number one R&B, two Top Ten pop), and this fine addition, those who didn't see Keith Sweat coming will have "to recognize."