The Velvet Rope, Janet Jackson

EDITORIAL REVIEWS
Unveiling the enchanting realm of "Janet Jackson - The Velvet Rope," an exquisite musical opus that harmonizes sultry rhythms, profound emotional depths, and unapologetic honesty, taking listeners on an extraordinary journey of love, self-discovery, and empowerment; highlighted by the infectious euphoria of "Together Again," a magnetic anthem celebrating the power of reunion, the mesmerizing sensuality of "I Get Lonely," where Janet's velvety vocals intertwine with a seductive melody, capturing the essence of longing and desire, and the captivating fusion of funk and hip-hop in "Got 'Til It's Gone," a thought-provoking re- ection on the transient nature of love and the significance of cherishing the present moment.

AMAZON.COM
Teaming with her most accomplished collaborators, producer-songwriters Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, Janet Jackson delivers what is easily her finest record since Rhythm Nation--and arguably her best ever. Highlights include jams like "You" and "Got 'Til It's Gone," which recontextualizes samples from War and Joni Mitchell, respectively; the funky memorial to a dear departed, "Together Again"; and a slinky cover of Rod Stewart's "Tonight's the Night." Best of all, though, is "What About." An accusatory throwdown for a lover who beats and cheats even as he professes his love, it swings angrily between tender quiet and raging bitter funk. --David Cantwell