I Remember You

Album Review

Brian McKnight has become the latest in a series of after-hours-style R&B heroes, matinee idols with decent voices who parlay suggestiveness, romantic lyrics, and sex appeal into sizable popularity among female fans. McKnight's strength is his coy delivery and savvy selection of material; he never does any tune that forces him to stretch the upper or lower register, nor does he experiment much with reggae, hip-hop, or cutting-edge production. McKnight keeps it simple, mostly mellow, and love-oriented, though the single "Keep It on the Down Low" demonstrates an effectiveness with faster numbers not previously evident. As a songwriter he's efficient, if rather straightforward; as a singer he's more steadfast than soulful, and more predictable than unforgettable. There's not a lot to like or dislike about I Remember You, which may be the problem; it's so generic and reflective of everything and nothing that it doesn't do much for anyone who wants to be confronted, inspired, or even mildly stimulated. It's the ideal late-night quiet storm session, aimed at those who enjoy getting the ambience of R&B without the intensity.