Life's Aquarium

The world has plenty of R&B vocalists, but when it comes to actual R&B bands--you know, the ones with actual musicians playing actual instruments--the pickings are on the slim side. With Tony Toni Tone AWOL, Mint Condition are not only the template for contemporary R&B bands but practically the only contenders in the category. Yet the lack of competition hasn't made them any less eager or hungry. In fact, the band's fifth CD, its first on Elektra, is its most focused to date. Written and produced by the band, Life's Aquarium finds Mint Condition in a more sexually aggressive mood than on their previous CDs. That assertiveness is evident on cuts such as the rugged "Touch That Body," the jittery bump-and-grind of "Who Can You Trust," and the soft wet kisses of "Pretty Lady" (the latter featuring a cameo from the Gap Band's Charlie Wilson). Where once Mint Condition showed off their chops by launching into extended but aimless jazz-fusion riffs, or tried to impress the listener with chord changes and arpeggios straight out of a music-comp course, they now bypass the showboating and stick to simple but effective songs. All of which makes Life's Aquarium satisfying, soulful, and the best music to date from a band that has earned its stripes. --Amy Linden