Joss Stone

Introducing...

Virgin/EMI

John Britton (CHARTattack)

03/20/2007 8:02pm

Introducing... is Joss Stone's third foray into the American urban market. She collaborates here with soul man extraordinaire Raphael Saadiq (The Roots, Macy Gray), who produces a disc that comprises a mix of '70s-inspired soul and hip-hop grooves with neo-soul production. Common appears on "Tell Me What We're Gonna Do," a slick mid-tempo jam that rides on the melody from Gladys Knight's "Midnight Train To Georgia." The reclusive Lauryn Hill comes out of hiding to add a rap on the laid back "Music." But it's the bounce of first single "Tell Me 'Bout It" that's going to keep the dancefloors packed. The track is laced with hooks, infectious back-ups and a bridge that lets you know why Stone's one of the most sought-after voices in the biz right now. This is a good record that's almost great. There could have been a few more catchy, single-worthy cuts, but this is a promising hint of what to expect from this gifted songstress who hasn't peaked yet.