Disc one of
Twenty constitutes
Boyz II Men's first full-length set of original material since 2002’s
Full Circle, an album released just prior to the departure of bass vocalist
Michael McCary. The title here isn’t the only manner in which the group acknowledges its longevity. They work with past collaborators such as
Tim & Bob,
Teddy Riley, and
Babyface, each of whom either produces or co-produces three tracks. Rather than attempt to compete with younger acts on the charts, they largely stick to their tried and true approach and appeal to their longtime listeners. Some of the slower songs get a little raunchy, but most of them -- highlighted by “More Than You’ll Ever Know,” featuring
Charlie Wilson -- switch between romantic pleading and uplifting/inspirational modes. It’s their most enjoyable work since 2000’s
Nathan Michael Shawn Wanya. On the second disc,
Boyz II Men cover themselves. In some cases, the new looks at their hits are closer to re-creations than reinterpretations, with only slight variations on the vocal and instrumental arrangements. That
Boyz II Men still have it, both individually and collectively, is undeniable; their group harmonies sound as easy as ever. That’s what they had over most contemporary R&B acts in 1991, and that's what they have over all of them in 2011. ~ Andy Kellman