Soulschool

A tight urban outing from this New Orleans-based hip-hop crooner. This album featured just one release. "Is It Me" is an attractive number that simmers with its seductive rhythm and Monteco's convincing delivery. Romeo of Immature fame is a guest vocalist, but Monteco's tone provides the thrust. However, "Is It Me" slipped into the Billboard R&B charts at number 38 after a healthy 18 weeks. In spite of its chart position, this is hit material, as is the entire album. Any one of these better-than-average songs is worth the listen. Most of the tracks are ballads set in that blue funk mode. The urban grooves, captivating hook lines, and the energy of Monteco's animated and sometimes self-gratifying vocals, make this a solid hip-hop production. ~ Craig Lytle