All Saints

They know where it's at.

Review Score:

(6/10)
All Saints, largely considered a pop paradox of two talented musicians and two pretty blonde sisters-come-media-whores who couldn't sing for peanuts, were the epitome of the late nineties UK R'n'B/pop. And 'never ever' did they get it more right. Smooth harmonies, silky melodies, and the right balance between booty-shakers and cool R'n'B slowjams.

Their debut album, the somewhat uninspiringly titled 'All Saints', showcases why these four girls were the hottest thing on the 'credible' side of pop in 1998. Whilst the Spice Girls were off romping around in their platforms, the cargo-wearing, laidback girls Shaznay Lewis, Mel Blatt, and Nicole and Natalie Appleton managed to achieve the same sort of success but do it with a bit more dignity than their popstar counterparts. From the smooth yearning 'Never Ever' to the bump-and-groove 'I Know Where It's At', the album is a largely quality release. They offer two delicious covers, a rap-infused reworking of 'Lady Marmalade' and a gorgeous version of Red Hot Chili Peppers' 'Under The Bridge', and positively shine on the dirty 'Bootie Call' and Spice Girls disco spin 'If You Want To Party (I Found Lovin')'.

Admittedly there are a few weak spots. 'Trapped', 'Beg' and 'Heaven' are nice enough songs, but not up to the standard of the singles. However, considering the mileage the girls got out of the seven (!) singles they managed to release from this record, that's only a minor misstep in a very listenable album.

Cool, fresh and just as funky six years on.

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