Jagged Edge: Hard

By Erin Wienke

“Where’s the Bacardi at?”

You’re not going to find it on “Hard,” Jagged Edge’s new release.

The Atlanta boys’ fourth album follows “Jagged Little Thrill,” which achieved MTV success with the song “Where’s the Party At?”

“Hard” reverts back to JE’s roots as vocally talented R&B singers. The songs aren’t as catchy as the last album, but old fans will appreciate the return of early ’90s love ballads. The Jodeci-like style cannot be denied in the standout ballads on this album.

Almost all the songs on the album start slow, with heavy bass beats and stringed instrumentals. “Walked Outta Heaven” has that typical Oriental feel that Jagged Edge has made popular.

JE showcases sexy vocals, making everything sound provocative. Many of the songs focus on lost love, but it’s hard to imagine why anyone would leave a man who can sing like Wingo, Kyle, Brian or Brandon. Their soulful voices pour over every track, balancing out the hard bass beats.

Other popular artists make cameos on Jagged Edge’s new release. Hit-maker Jermaine Dupri, who has worked with almost everyone in the business, collaborated on two tracks, “Visions” and “Shady Girl.” Outkast’s Big Boi highlights “Car Show,” as his rhyming definitely is the high point of the song.

It’s not difficult to see that old-school fans will have their faith restored in Jagged Edge with “Hard.”