Harmony (1992)

Chicago's Lidell Townsell & M.T.F. know exactly what the future holds — they're creating it. Harmony finds Townsell, a former house-music DJ and cocreator of the club anthem ''Nu Nu,'' hooked up with supple-voiced gospel and R&B singer Martell and quick-lipped rapper Silk E for an explosive blending of old and new. Stunning house beats — from a brain- shaking bass line on ''Get With U'' to joyful classic disco repetition on ''Trust Me'' — provide the background while M.T.F. (Martell and Silk E) rap, belt, and soar with great verve and awkward but appealing enthusiasm. The album runs out of steam, but not before Townsell and company show the groove is in the heart — and vice versa. A-