Blacka Da Berry (Explicit)

by Leo StanleyAlfonzo Hunter's debut album Blacka Da Berry finds the twentysomething singer working the same ground as his contemporaries Maxwell and D'Angelo -- namely, classic early '70s soul. Hunter tries to bring the music up to date more than either Maxwell or D'Angelo, particularly in terms of lyrics -- the first single "Just the Way (Playas Play)" sums up the difference in attitude. Also, producers Erick Sermon and the Def Squad bring a hip-hop sensibility to the music, which is often intriguing, if not always very successful. Even with its mis-steps, Blacka Da Berry is a promising debut, demonstrating that Hunter is flush with potential and talent.