Posted on 01/12/2009
You could say Keyshia Cole has had a very successful 2008. Aside from being featured on a bunch of tracks and continuing her own reality show, her 2007 sophomore album, Just Like You, gained plenty of steam with the Grammy nominated, “Heaven Sent.” The momentum now flows to A Different Me, the latest album from KC and one that certainly lives up to its title. Nothing here impresses beyond belief, however what does amaze is Keyshia’s (and her team’s) ability to overdo absolutely everything to a complete annoying bore. Apparently the “quality, not quantity” approach doesn’t translate well with Keyshia.

Thanks to KC’s informative and inappropriately comedic introduction, we find out that this album is the sexier side of her. There is plenty of sexy on “Erotic,” with its radio friendly demeanor and seductive writing stance. The strings are lively and the production elements, courtesy of Neffu, are in full effect throughout this track and the other Neffu gem, “You Complete Me.” It is on these two songs that the new and different Keyshia seems most comfortable and settled in, thus, allowing the listeners to settle in with her and bundle up for the rest of the album.

Sadly, while the aforementioned two tracks do everything perfectly, there are other unfortunate hiccups on the LP. “Make Me Over” sounds like an “Ain’t No Other Man” wannabe and KC clearly over-sings on it. The latter criticism is one evident throughout her career and it is no exception on A Different Me. While MJB and Christina Aguilara make those high notes seem effortless and make those casual tones so, well, … casual, Keyshia doesn’t. It is apparent on the “Trust” duet with seasoned vet, Monica, that the relatively new songstress is clearly mismatched by the vocally stronger and natural singer.

An unnecessary guest spot from Nasir Jones and an outdated track “with” 2pac run this 54 minute album longer than it has to be. The extensive elaboration via her voice and song scheme eventually will wear the listener thin along with the boring and unKeyshia-like love-happy lyrics. But, while the lyrics may be unexciting, the production, heavily overseen by Ron Fair, elevates the songs to a musical and emotional level that KC has not yet witnessed. This change could potentially be a great move for Keyshia into a brighter, more uplifting musical lifestyle, as opposed to the dark, fiery experiences she normally displays. There are pros and cons to this different Keyshia Cole; regardless, you should get to know her.

- Sean Deezill