With the 1986 album Control, the youngest sister of Michael Jackson established herself in the list of world-famous pop stars. For Janet - the surname was lost in the early nineties - reason to dedicate an album to it. Hip-hop producer Jermaine Dupri was called in for help to make it sound up to date. While a colleague like Madonna sometimes wants to surprise by coming up with a completely new sound,
… Janet chooses the safe way. It's commercial r & b that keeps the clock on 20 YO Only her distinctive voice makes that there is still some character to be heard on this record. For the rest the songs sound soulless and interchangeable. Also lyrically there is little to enjoy ('cause it rained yesterday / but that was ok'). Even Janet's invitation 'I'll open my spot for you' can't make this record more exciting. The DVD contains a photo reportage and behind the scenes glimpses of the album recordings, the clip and the auditions for the dancers in it. (MH)more
