112 keeps it real on debut album

The members of 112 have just accomplished a number of firsts. As the first male R&B group on the Bad Boy label, these Atlanta natives have dropped an impressive self-titled debut album. Surprisingly though, this CD is nothing like one might expect from a group on the Bad Boy label. One of the most appealing aspects of this album is that the songs aren't riffed with a lot of fast, congested beats or all-too-familiar samples from other songs. In fact, the CD contains very few up-tempo songs. With the exceptions of "Only You," the first single released from the album, and "I'm In Love With You," the remaining songs have a smoother, more laid-back vibe.

The lyrical content of the songs is also surprising. Instead of having a lot of songs laced with foul language and derogatory comments toward females, this album is all about love, romance and relationships. On songs like "This Is Your Day," and "I Will Be There," the group is plenty chivalrous, but without running the risk of beggin' or being overly sensitive.

The vocal talent displayed on the album is also a plus. This group can truly sing, all instrumentation aside. On songs such as "Now That We're Done," and "Can I Touch You," the four group members blend their voices together to create melodious harmonies. 112's vocal skills are exemplified on "Keep It Real," a song written in tribute to producer Sean "Puffy" Combs. With a piano as its only music, the group proceeds to break it down while honoring its mentor.

This album was very well constructed, especially for a first-time effort. There are no songs on the CD made simply for the sake of taking up space; all the songs have the potential of becoming singles. 112 also displays a certain level of poise. The manner in which it performs "I Can't Believe," featuring Faith Evans, suggests the maturity of a group that is far more experienced.

Good music and talented vocals make "112" one CD worth owning. With 19 tracks, there is sure to be something to please almost everyone.

- Jessica Simmons

Coal Chamber
Coal Chamber
Roadrunner Records
3 stars

Coal Chamber's sound is that of a war machine gone haywire. This self-titled debut album is hard-driven, in your face and out of control. Coal Chamber's style is similar to that of Pantera and White Zombie, but Coal Chamber has a much fresher element to its music, much like the Southern California sound of bands like Korn and the Deftones. This album shows Coal Chamber's ability to put out 14 decent tracks that will fill the listener with more energy than a child who forgot his Ritalin.

The album opens with "Loco," a frenzied song with the lead singer, Dez, screaming like a madman, "Me Loco!" The resounding basslines on this track and throughout the rest of the album create much tension in the music. Coal Chamber effectively releases this pressure in the form of absolutely chaotic choruses. The only downfall to the album is this trend, which does become a bit tiresome.

The song "Bradley" is one of the best tracks on the album. The guitar commences this song with a very mechanical rhythm, with the bass following closely behind while Dez sings, "Mom, these letters at Christmas are driving me crazy." "Big Truck" is another excellent song, which has the sound of Clutch's album "Trans-national Speedway League." With its almost hip-hop-like beat and futuristic guitar sounds, "Big Truck" will please even the hardest of rockers.

Coal Chamber creates its own version of "The Roof is on Fire" in the beginning of "Sway," easily the hardest version ever recorded. Another creative aspect to the album is the beginning of "Pig," during which Dez calls out in a genuine "souee" fashion to the men in blue.

This album is a fine debut for young Coal Chamber, who, with a little maturity, should be producing some of the hardest, hippest and craziest music out there. Coal Chamber is definitely on the right track.

- Brian M. Kemp

Wouldn't you like to take Coal Chamber home to meet your mother?

07-16-97