Bonga's Beats - For R&B lovers

CIARA - FANTASY RIDE

Ciara began working on this third album at the beginning of 2008 and it was originally meant to be 3 discs. Probably her most energetic album, Ciara introduces us to her alter ego Super C, her “inner strength and aggressive persona”. As usual, she has enlisted some of the industry's giants to produce for her; like Danja, The Dream, Ne-Yo and Justin Timberlake. The album as a whole is quite solid but could have been better, considering that this is her 3rd album. There doesn't seem to be much growth, especially lyrically and in the choice of music. That being said, Ciara will be definitely named one of the dance pioneers of the 21st century. She also excels in ballads like “I Don't Remember” and “Keep Dancin On Me”.

KERI HILSON - IN A PERFECT WORLD

Hilson began writing for a number of notable artists before releasing this debut album which has been postponed many times and she is definitely a great addition to the world of R&B. It's been a while since a new artist made so much noise and forced people to pay attention and that's what happens when you have the looks, voice, talent, attitude and the right people behind you. Her light airy vocals perfectly match the production of the songs; like the already chart-topping “Knocks You Down”, “Energy” “Where Did He Go” and many other songs.

RYAN LESLIE - RYAN LESLIE

After producing songs for showbiz favourites like Beyonce, Danity Kane, Britney, Jojo and many others; it was not unexpected for R-Les to release his own album. Before releasing this album, he had more than 21 million video views on YouTube as he documented the road to this debut release. That should give you an idea of R-Les' musical power. “Diamond Girl” and “Addiction” have already gotten heavy airplay on radio. Most of the songs are mid tempo and this album will definitely go down in history as one of the greatest debuts.

SHONTELLE - SHONTELLIGENCE

Many people have compared this new Barbados singer to Rihanna, probably because they have a similar style of music and they are from the same hood. It should be mentioned that Rihanna is no match when compared to Shontelle, vocally. One of the songs “T-Shirt” has already been getting major airplay, making her a good contender in the R&B world. Most of the songs are very reggae-influenced. I look forward to hearing her follow up album as this one has a handful of great tracks.

SYLEENA JOHNSON - CHAPTER 4: LABOR PAINS

I was very pleased to learn that Chapter 4 has finally been released for the South Africans, who have always been supportive of this R&B's best kept secret and Chapter 4 proves exactly why. Probably one of her best and solid records to date, this album finds Syleena at her happiest (lyrically) and the music is as soulful as ever. “Go” and “Be Me” are the current singles on SA radio. Chapter 4 is a good reminder of what great soul music is all about: honest lyrics, beautiful music, and amazing vocals.

LAURA IZIBOR - LET THE TRUTH BE TOLD

I can't remember the last time I was so blown away by a new singer. The 22 year old Laura is the way forward. This is her debut album and she wrote all the songs herself. Furthermore, she didn't feature any established artists to help create the hype, it's just Laura all the way. Soul music at its best. With only a total of 10 songs, it's not unlikely that you will have this album on repeat without even realising it. “Let the truth be Told” is a good, solid album and I just pray that Laura maintains her soulfulness and not succumb to the industry pressure.

OLETA ADAMS - LET'S STAY HERE

It's so amazing to think that the last time we heard from Oleta was 8 years ago when she released “All the Love” and even that wasn't released locally. So technically, we last heard from her in 1997 when she released her gospel album “Come Walk With Me”. But because her songs are so timeless; no one really paid much attention to it. The fact that she's performed in SA a number of times has also helped maintain her profile. “Let's Stay Here” sees Oleta at her best vocally, with the type of perfectly-arranged soulful music that stole the hearts of music-lovers decades ago. I just wish that she'd included more than 10 songs.

MAXWELL - BLACKSUMMERS'NIGHT

BLACKsummers'night, a triligy, is a big deal. It's another hugely anticipated new studio album from neo-soul artist Maxwell, his first full-length album in eight years. That puts him under immense pressure since his last album was critically acclaimed and generated a number of hits. In his new offering, Maxwell doesn't disappoint. He sticks to what he knows best, soul music, without trying to competeing with the younger singers. He knows his market. Songs like “Pretty Wings”, “Love You” and “Stop the World” should be huge favourites.