Jean Grae
“JEANIUS”
RATING: 3 EXCLAMATION POINTS
Four years after her last record, Jean Grae returns with a fierce showing helmed by the 9th Wonder, who’s worked with Jay-Z and Mary J. Blige. The beats are better, if a bit familiar, but the real draw is Grae’s taut, bitter flow. Like many rappers, she spends too much time cutting down perceived rivals. But when she shines the light on herself, it’s with an uncommon honesty and depth. [DOUG WALLEN, THE PHILADELPHIA INQUIRER]
SINGLED OUT
SONGS TO KEEP AN EAR OUT FOR
Menudo “LOST”
RATING: 3 EXCLAMATION POINTS
Given the current avalanche of teen pop, it only makes sense that the experts at it, like Johnny Wright of ‘N Sync fame, would dominate again. His revamping of the Menudo franchise is at its best with the single “Lost,” an infectious midtempo dance number that will be thumping on beaches all summer. [GLENN GAMBOA, NEWSDAY]
