Rating: NNN
Unlike his chiselled physique, Tyrese’s sophomore release is hardly power-packed and often struggles for sex appeal. His R&B vocals are adequate, but the up-tempo jams and sultry ballads only become high-voltage hits with the masterful production of Rodney Jerkins, Babyface and the Underdogs. Don’t expect the L.A. beau to flex any artistic muscle in the lyrical department either — unoriginal songs about love, lust and relationship drama weaken the album. Nevertheless, his carefully crafted soul has few major flaws and is as smooth as 1998’s heartfelt Sweet Lady. 2000 Watts will satisfy fans, but if the Guess-model-turned-singer wants a greater stronghold in urban markets, Tyrese needs to be as electrifying on CD as he is on the runway.
