"All of the artists on the lineup for the second annual R&B Xmas Ball Dru Hill, Joe, Toni Braxton and Boyz II Men have Christmas albums from the last two decades, but rather than putting a twist on carols or crooner standards, this is an evening that merely uses Christmas as an excuse for a night out to hear earnest, heart-rending 90s R&B. Slow jam Joe. Photograph: Laura Rose/The Guardian Dru Hill deliver classic R&B in matching outfits, as their 2000s music videos as seen on kebab shop TVs nationwide play out behind them, while a set of mostly slow jams from Joe sets the stage for Braxton."
"The opening seconds of Burna Boy's Last Last transition to He Wasn't Man Enough, the song which it samples: cleverly tying in Braxton's heritage and hybridity. But like Dru Hill, Braxton and her live band initially seem to be stuck in the era when the music was made, with the same vocal prowess and flirty charm, just a little different in clothing and choreography. Then, nine songs in, she discusses her battles with lupus, and being told she'd never perform live again. Breathe Again is sung through tears in a single spotlight."
"In dazzlingly matching all-white outfits, Boyz II Men open with Motownphilly and then move through Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee. Their three-part harmonies are awe-inspiring: totally tight and unblemished, but also responsive to their live band. Dazzling Boyz II Men. Photograph: Laura Rose/The Guardian They cover the music that influenced them Shawn Stockman's solo on a purple guitar during their cover of Prince's Purple Rain is a standout and music influenced by them, with Wanya Morris heading up Bruno Mars's Locked Out of Heaven. We finally get into the Christmas spirit with Silent Night"
The concert features Dru Hill, Joe, Toni Braxton and Boyz II Men delivering soulful 90s R&B rather than traditional Christmas standards. Dru Hill perform in matching outfits with their 2000s videos projected behind them while Joe provides a set of slow jams that prepares the audience for Braxton. Braxton reveals her battle with lupus mid-set, sings Breathe Again through tears, and captivates with Long As I Live before encores. Boyz II Men appear in all-white, showcase impeccable three-part harmonies, cover Prince and contemporary songs, and finally perform Silent Night to introduce a Christmas moment.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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