Hot Hits & Soggy Filler

Review Score: (6/10)
Released at the height of H&O's chart-topping era, "H20" is definitely a hit and miss affair. It continues in the synthesized vein of "Private Eyes," with keyboard squiggles and studio wizardry embellishing the songs. Though some of the production sounds a bit dated (and bass-lite) today, the album has held up fairly well. But just like other Pop/Rock artists who churn out a new album as soon as the singles from the previous album have run their course, H&O put together a spotty collection.

"Crime Pays," "Art of Hearbreak," "Delayed Reaction," "At Tension" and "Go Solo" are all throwaways, and the synth gimmickry can't hide such poorly conceived material. On the other hand, "Maneater," "One On One" and "Family Man" are all terrific singles, alternately dancey, soulful and Rock-solid. Album tracks like "Guessing Games," "Italian Girls" and "Open All Night" provide even more listening enjoyment, with great vocals, dynamic arrangements and memorable instrumentation.

Some critics have slapped a "sexist" label on this recording, and given the lyrical point of view in several cuts ("Maneater," "Open All Night" and "Family Man") I can understand the accusation. However, I don't agree with it. "Maneaters," Ho's and prostitutes exist in real life, and not all of them are good intentioned. If H&O chose to examine such characters with a measure of disdain, they're hardly in a league with your average "gangsta" rapper when it comes to sexism.

I enjoy this album quite a bit, and I'm sure all the H&O diehards out there do too. If you're a casual fan or newbie, you might want to start your H&O collection with a sure bet, like one of their hit compilations. If you want more than that, check out "Private Eyes" and "Along The Red Ledge" before picking up "H2O".

-Stoned Soul

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