Rating: NNN
Prior to signing with Rick Ross’s Maybach Music Group in 2012, sensual crooner Omarion struggled to find his footing in the ever-evolving world of R&B. His most recent release, Care Package 2 (a follow-up to 2012’s Care Package), is a step in the right direction. The nine tracks attempt to strike a balance between his trademark R&B sound and today’s often brooding futurism, but also reveal that he is still figuring out his role as MMG’s slow-jam connoisseur. (When you’re gifted with a voice like Omarion’s, there will be unlimited opportunities to get it right.)
On CP2, he covers relationship mainstays of love, loss, lust and all-encompassing crazy. Recently released single Love & Other Drugs outlines the frustrations of desire Between The Covers is like an R. Kelly throwback. Standout Diamonds Hennessy featuring Audio Push glides effortlessly into a fresh version of Self Made, Vol. 3’s Know You Better – this time with a verse from Nipsey Hussle – before fading into Tomorrow with Casey Veggies.
Top track: Know You Better, feat. Nipsey Hussle