I was one of the many R&B fans who rejoiced when I found out that two of music's most underrated artists, Syleena Johnson and Musiq Soulchild, were collaborating on not only a song but a nine-track album, entitled 9INE. (Why don't more artists collaborate in this manner? Roberta Flack and Donny Hathaway, Peabo Bryson and Natalie Cole and Marvin Gaye and Diana Ross all cut hot duet albums while still keeping their solo careers going strong.) At first, I was nervous that their new song, "Feel the Fire," was just another remake of Bryson's classic by the same name, but I was pleasantly surprised to discover that "Feel the Fire" is a sensual, reggae-soul hybrid track that could brighten up a cloudy day or heat up a cool evening. The record, produced by reggae producer Kemar McGregor, takes complete advantage of the two artists' unique vocals. Syleena's heavy lower register perfectly matches up with Musiq's soulful tone. If this is the prelude, I am very excited to hear what they can cook up on 9INE when it drops on July 9th.
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