Day in the Life
Eric Benét is a significant contender in the line of young soul men (Maxwell,D'Angelo,Kenny Lattimore) who combine thoughtful lyricism, an old school R&B; feel, and smooth sensuality.  One listen to Benét's second solo album, and there's no doubt about it: the Milwaukee native has all the elements to become a major star. The vocal and lyrical influence ofStevie Wonderis evident on "Lamentation," "Why You Follow Me," and the emotive ballad "Come As You Are," whileWyclef Jean's contribution, "Loving Your Best Friend," is one of the disc's highlights. Still, Benét is very much his own man on cuts like "When You Think of Me" (featuring '70s jazz-funk pioneerRoy Ayers) and the heart-wrenching slow jam "Love the Hurt Away."--David Nathan