Some of the best R&B jamz of the nineties in one place!

I was introduced to Monsta Jamz because I was looking for a couple of songs that I wanted, but didn't necessarily want the whole album. Since I'm a huge fan of R&B, specifically and affectionately of the nineties R&B, I already have a majority of the albums these songs originated from. Yet, I still would pick this up if I had the chance because it does have some songs I don't have and it's one of the best compilations I've heard. The kind of CD you could throw in the car for road trips and have the best of numerous albums. Of course, you could burn your own mixes but I don't always have time for that in my busy life. If you are a casual R&B fan who usually likes the singles but are not motivated the albums this album is pretty much perfect.

The album has all the heavy hitters of R&B and races out of the gate to a star powered start. "No No No Part 2" was the first hit Destiny's Child ever had and it's not hard to see why. Beyonce was already spitting out that fast paced, to the point singing and the ladies sound great. Featuring a cameo and some tight production from Wyclef Jean, this song was THE jam in 1997. The next track keeps us locked in that year with another monster hit "Too Close" by Next. This is one of those ones I liked but didn't want the whole album. It has a smooth, bump-n-Grind groove that was perfect for the clubs.

"No Diggity" has to be one of the best jams of the nineties from Blackstreet. Coming across the speakers with a confident swagger, some great production and cameo by Dr. Dre and some soulful vocals it's yet another unforgettable jam. This one's from the year 1996. From the same year is the only hit I've ever really completely loved from Ginuwine, the naughty and slightly raunchy "Pony" and En Vogue's divalicious "Don't Let Go".

If you turn back the hands of time a few years to 1993 you'll find the ladies of Xscape "Just Kickin' It" as well. Produced by Jermaine Dupree, these ladies created a unique sound with prominent beats and smooth harmonies. This song was huge in most places around the time. I think in Wyoming though they thought Xscape was just a new Ford or something. From the same year we have R. Kelly when R. Kelly was still good. "Bump 'n' Grind" was a sexually charged sensual song that actually sounded sexy. The opening growl where he belts out "My mind's telling me no.....but my BODY, my body is telling me yes...." is probably one of the most soulful moments of the nineties. "If I Had No Loot" from the swinging, R&B trio Tony! Toni! Tony! was another nice track from that year as well that's included here.

1992 only gets two representatives and they both are girl groups. SWV makes it onto the compilation with the bouncy, vibrant "I'm So Into You" from their highly successful debut album. Jade also brings it on with their hit "Don't Walk Away". Although as a group Jade didn't have the kind of individuality and talent SWV or Xscape had this song had a laidback, honeyed vibe that makes it another fine choice.

1994 by far gets the most action on this compilation. Boys II Men's swooning "On Bended Knee" finds their apology accepted. Aaliyah's smooth and sultry "Age Ain't Nothing But A Number" (hilariously produced and written by R. Kelly I might add) also finds it's way on here. I'm a little surprised they didn't put "Back and Forth" on here which I like better but it's still a smooth cut. "Freak Like Me" from Adina Howard was a track I'm not as familiar with but it's a good one from 1994. Soul For Real gets some love for their one hit wonder "Candy Rain". By far my favorite track from that year though is the smooth, classy sounds of Brownstone on the gorgeous "If You Love Me". I definitely think that is one of my all time favorite R&B songs.

1995 gave us Monica and she is included for "Don't Take It Personal (Just One of Dem Days). This was a really popular song around that time and it had a nice laidback sound that was appropriate for the younger crowd. I honestly don't remember "He's Mine" by a group called MoKenStef. It's a slow and the lead singer sounds a little bit like Coko from SWV. I can see this being a hit at the time though.

The only track from 1998 is the collaboration between Pras, Ol' Dirty bastard and Mya "Ghetto Superstar". This was so overplayed at the time but hearing it now it's more refreshed and enjoyable.

This is a fantastic mix of R&B from various different years from the nineties and really pulls forth from some of the biggest names and talents from that decade. Whether you are a huge R&B fan or a casual partaker, this album really is a great collection. It's an album you can listen to from start to finish.