Willie Norwood Bout It Atlantic Records Urban/Hip-Hop 10-23-2001

SCORE 76%

Willie Norwood (father of artists Brandy and Ray J.) releases his debut album on Atlantic Records, 'Bout It, with a flare for both the traditional and the modern. With a collection of various producers, numerous guest vocalists, and a mixture of songs old and new, Norwood's debut is solid, if a bit directionless.

Musically, the album can sound a bit dated in places, especially on the ballads. Such as "A Love Shared," Norwood's duet with Brandy, both of whom prove up to the task, harmonizing in beautiful ways as only family can, but the production is surprisingly retro, sounding like the theme ballad for an animated Disney movie. Other ballads give him greater opportunities to shine, such as the powerful "I'm Gonna Make It" and the smooth "No Limit," but still fall within pre-treaded territory.

The production values prove more adept at the high energy songs, which are appropriately funky, with all the right beats in all the right places. Norwood himself puts plenty of soul into these welcome moments of fun, such as the groove-heavy title track and the toe-tapping remake of "Put A Little Love In Your Heart." He keeps things all in the family on the traditional "Have Thine Own Way," which features appearances from both his father and his son (Ray J.).

'Bout It doesn't go anywhere new or different, musically, but it still has enough to offer to be worthwhile for the faithful.

Album cover courtesy of Atlantic Records.