BOYZ GROW UP (2008)

No one can say that pop's vision of romance is limited to Sir Mix-A-Lot's ''Put 'Em on the Glass.'' At least, not with Boyz II Men-and their throwback to classic Motown soul-celebrating seduction, monogamy, and mutual respect so heartily. The Philly-based vocal quartet's hit debut (7 million copies sold worldwide) was no slouch in the wide-eyed love-song department, but II (Motown), their follow-up, is even more sophisticated. ''Thank You'' shows gratitude to a lover for sticking through the hard times, ''On Bended Knee'' begs a departed partner to return, and ''Water Runs Dry'' reminds couples to communicate to prevent building walls between each other. Boyz II Men aren't monks; no matter how noble the lyrics, the lush vocal and string arrangements suggest a deep-seated sensuality. And when they do get down and dirty, it's with someone they want to spend their life with. Even when the funk gets turned up-as on ''All Around the World''-the Boyz maintain their understated charm. A

You Might Also Like

• Music Review ANTHOLOGY 3; WHAT IF IT'S YOU;II;EARLY RECORDINGS;BEAVIS & BUTT-HEAD DO AMERICA | David Browne
• Music Review II | Alanna Nash
• Music Review Motown: A Journey Through Hitsville USA | Jonathan Bernstein
• Music News BIG-BAND SANTA
• Music News BOYZ WITH BUCKS?
• Music News REVENGE OF THE NERDS