Slim - 'Love's Crazy'

Of all the members of the vocal group 112 (One-Twelve), Marvin "Slim" Scandrick has without a doubt the most unique and easily identifiable voice. And he’s also one of the Atlanta-based group’s most popular members, so it should come as no surprise to fans that he would eventually drop a solo album. The only question is: why did he wait so long? Slim has been primed for solo stardom ever since 112’s self-titled 1996 debut album. And on Love’s Crazy, released in the U.S. on Nov. 18, 2008, Slim shows and proves that he can carry a solo album - as long as he has a little help from some friends on various tracks.

Anyone who was already a 112 fan probably won't be disappointed by this album, and anyone who isn't, but is into T-Pain, Ryan Leslie and similar artists/producers will likely dig what Slim's offering. Among the album's strongest cuts are the first two official singles, "So Fly," featuring Yung Joc and Shawty Lo and "Good Lovin'," with Ryan Leslie and Fabolous. "So Fly" in particular is an instantly catchy, R&B/Hip-Hop hybrid that brings smiles and head nods and succeeds at being fun and funny without leaning too much on either the singing or rapping sides of the fence. The same can be said for the uptempo and sexy "Good Lovin'," a sophisticated seduction song who's lyrics are mostly for a more mature audience, but with music that appeals to the dance club crowd. Another winner is the 112-ish ode to women "She Got That," which even references "peaches and cream," one of the phrases (and songs) 112's most identified with.

In addition to the aforementioned songs, which are all uptempo, there's a number of slower, more romantic songs, such as "Sweet Baby," "U Got Me (Addicted)" and the lusty "Bedtime Stories." Interestingly, Slim's high, pre-pubescent sounding voice somewhat diminishes his effectiveness as a romantic crooner. So despite his best efforts to bring the sexy, he's only partially successful: his strong suit on the album is definitely the more uptempo tracks. So overall, Love's Crazy shows that Slim can do just fine as a singer with or without 112 - as long as he has a few guests to help him out here and there.