Let me whisper a Secret in your ear, "You should get this CD."

I’ve got a secret that I thought I would share with you. For music lovers, Toni Braxton’s CD titled, “Secrets” is no secret at all, in fact her spectacular R&B sound is well known, and naturally this CD probably sits somewhere in your collection. The name Toni Braxton should bring pleasant romantic melodies to your mind and heart.


This oldie but goodie was Braxton's second album. This Babyface and L.A. Reid, production is loaded with time honored R&B hits written by some of the best artist in the industry including, Tony Rich, and Diane Warren.


The album “Secrets” represents Braxton’s opportunity to do it all, where she sings, produces, and creates a spectacular CD. This first-rate contemporary R&B collections first track, “Come on over Here”, is an upbeat song with soft vocals and pleasing lyrics. After listening to this track you’ll quickly understand why Braxton is recognized as having one of the most magnificent voices in today's R&B/Pop industry. “Come on over Here” leaps into the smooth confines of adult contemporary music without losing the soulful R&B flavor that accentuates Braxton’s music.


The second track, “You’re Makin’ Me High” is an energetic song that once filled the airwaves. The song's smoldering rebuff and precision measured funky beats make for a perfect Braxton moment of spiky almost naughty fun. I really enjoy this upbeat song, with its saucy tone and sweet vocals. If you enjoy Karaoke then you’ll love singing along with her.


Track 4. “Un-Break My Heart” has become a staple love song to be played when you are thinking of that relationship that went wrong. This 1997 Grammy winning song is one of the smoothest pieces on the CD. If you are thinking about rejecting the pain of a broken heart, then this song will definitely make things easier.


Track 5. “Talking in His Sleep” is a tell all song with a slow beat. This song eloquently delivers that gentle slap in the face, if you are cheating in a relationship. After one listen, I was able to follow Braxton’s smooth quiet storm like lyrics that filled and encircled my thoughts. Although the beats a little slower on this track, the vocals are strong and the soulful theme is classic Braxton.


One of my favorite slow songs on this CD is “Let It Flow”. This mellow song goes down well when you are simply sitting and thinking about how wonderful life can be when things come together. If you wanted Toni to sing to you, then this is the track you’ll want to play. Her strong rhythmic vocals don’t miss a note or beat in this mid-tempo track. This familiar and delightful song can also be found on the Waiting To Exhale soundtrack.


Did someone say Jazz? Jazz is what the doctor ordered in track nine titled, “Why Should I Care”. Braxton infuses life and passion in this song as she elevates beyond the stifled confines or realities, making your mind think of things that could have been.


One of the great things about reviewing a familiar CD is the fact that track such as, “I Don’t Want To” spark some of the same thoughts and feelings that it did when you originally heard it. This ambient song makes for the perfect evening with a sultry let go and let love feel.


My least favorite track would be the final selection titled, “In the Late of Night/Toni’s Secrets”. Although she delivers a tough take on reality I usually like an ending with a bit of a bang. Overall, all of the songs are solid, and offer some of the best R&B music available. Braxton’s soulful voice combined with the writing talents of Reid and Edmonds has produced an exclusive CD that continues to capture the adult contemporary genre.


What I like best about this CD is the complete piano, guitar and of course Braxton’s diva like vocal arrangements, with full lyrics and well placed beats. I’m also going to give a shout out to photographer Randee Saint Nicolas for the CD’s jacket design, this is one attractive songstress.

Tracks listed on CD:

1. Come on over Here
2. You're Makin' Me High
3. There's No Me Without You
4. Un-Break My Heart
5. Talking in His Sleep
6. How Could an Angel Break My Heart
7. Find Me a Man
8. Let It Flow
9. Why Should I Care
10. I Don't Want To
11. I Love Me Some Him
12. In the Late of Night/Toni's Secrets