TP.3 Reloaded (by R. Kelly, Hip-hop)

TP.3 RELOADED offers 13 well-executed tracks leading up to the album's climax, the five-track musical soap opera "Trapped...in the Closet," also offered in video form on the limited edition's enclosed companion DVD. With plot twists that are mostly predictable, an improbable story of love, sex, intertwined relationships, and infidelity unfolds. Unfortunately, the heavy air of self-conscious cleverness overrides the originality of this form of musical storytelling -- the "Trapped...in the Closet" series, as well as the other tracks on the album, would be more powerful and effective with a dash of subtlety.

R. Kelly's voice sounds gorgeous on this exquisitely produced album, evoking the best soul-crooners of earlier eras. Produced with a light-handed touch, the instrumental tracks are tasteful, varied, and interesting -- unlike the lyrics, which jar the ear with obsessively explicit sexuality, sung as they are with such velvety sweetness. Kelly is daring, creative, and talented, with the musical chops to master a variety of musical styles. If he exercised a little tasteful restraint (and had some better-written lyrics), he could be a world-class artist.

Released on: July 5, 2005
Label: Jive Records
Genre: Hip-hop
Parental advisory: Yes