While digging through the old CD collection to see which ones can be posted on Half.com, I found my old All-4-One CD from 1994, which seems like a lifetime ago. Eight years may not seem like a long time for some people, but my life has changed completely in the interim. Not only was I not a momma, or a wife, but I wasn't much of anything but a brand new college grad, who didn't even have a job! Looks like the opposite has happened for All-4-One. They were riding high on the waves of their success with this smash album, but eventually faded away. I'm not sure of their reasons, though I've heard rumors of a motorcycle accident that left one band member "out of sync" for a while (sorry for the horrendous pun), but it can't be because of this album!

The foursome includes Jamie Jones, who sings lead and back-up vocals and is known for his melodious voice. He began his singing career as a child in the choir and his since moved in as the producer of their new projects. His favorite color is green.

Alfred Nevarez sings bass for the group. He has sung all over the United States and in 5 different continents as well. Alfred's favorite food is his mom's chicken salad.

The high note hitter for the group is Tony Borowiak. During the hiatus the All-4-One crew took, Tony was no slouch. He's since become a business man, a philanthropist and all around good guy. His lucky lotto number is 34.

The last member of the group is Delious, no last name needed. He has a strong and powerful voice that sends the group right over the edge. He is a true man of the world, being the son of an Air Force man.

Disclaimer: Though I'm poking fun at the group with a little information I found in the biography section on all4onelive.com, it is nonetheless a pretty good album, and my making fun should in no way keep you from getting this CD. However, for a good laugh, go to the site and read up on them!

So Much In Love

as we walk down the aisle together
we will vow to be together till we die
so in love are we two
just can't wait to say i do

As much a wedding song as you'd ever want to hear, So Much In Love is simply a sweet song. The members of this band harmonize beautifully on this song, and really outclass any of the boy bands we are enjoying now. This song has a bit of a do-wop feel to it, but I imagine it would still be a great song to play at a wedding, or to your honey on Valentine's Day.

Oh Girl

Now I lay me down to sleep
your not by my side
my pillow soakin' wet
from all the tears that I cried

A very sophomoric attempt to fill up the album. This song is terrible and reeks of the bubble gum tunes we had in the 80's. Just push fast forward.

Down to the Last Drop

I'll love you down, down to the last drop and down
baby I won't stop, and when you've had enough
I'll just stop and start over again
yes I will baby

Any self-respecting cynic will definitely gag over these syrupy sweet lyrics. Though this song was never heard by much of the radio-listening public, it has plenty of what All-4-One does best: harmonizing. The song is not catchy, but you can appreciate their very evident talent.

I Swear

I'll give you everything I can
I'll build your dreams with these two hands
We'll hang some memories on the walls

This song is the reason I bought this CD. In fact, it's got to be one of my all-time favorites. A funny thing, it's not listed on the insert in my CD, instead "I Swear" is on a sticker on the jewel cover. Late addition or not, this is the best song on the CD. The song showcases the vocal talent of every member of the band. It is an excellent choice for weddings, as well.

Without You

What can I do to show my love to you
I'd face enormous pain, run through the wind and rain
girl anything I'll do
the smile on your face is like a joy that can't be placed
it runs all over me, and takes a hold of me
don't let it fade away.

This song is truly terrible, complete with all of the electronic enhancements that was rampant in the early 90's. Do you like to hear grown men whine? If so, give this a listen. Another horrible component of this song is the rapping in the middle. I kept looking over my shoulder to make sure no one else was listening to me listen to this.

Skillz

little rump shaker she can really shake and bake
she's got skillz
watch her slippin and a slidin' working booty left to right
she's got skillz

I know this is a silly little song, but it's got a really great beat and gets me in a mood to dance. Now, if they want to try their hands at wrapping, it needs to be in this forum, because this is where they do it best. Now, the lyrics are a little vulgar, but if you aren't too freaked out by this small fact, this is a really great song!

Breathless

'cause when i look into your eyes
always makes my nature rise-oh baby
wanna get you in the mood
'cause tonight we're gonna groove-oh baby
makin' love until we're breathless

Oh, this song makes me want to hurl, too. Yeah, they have great voices, but who wants to hear about someone's "nature rising"? Give me a break! I guess they weren't marketing their albums to 30-something married women with children, but darn it, that's what they got! Skip this song unless your wanting to let your hubby know in a cheesy way that your ready for a little nature raising!

Something About You

we just got off the phone
I went and wrote this song
'cause girl you inspire me
you left this kind of love
that's really let's me know
you're not the average lady

You know what, unless you are making a guest-appearance on "The Ladies Man" with Tim Meadows, just skip this little song, too. Cheese Cheese Cheese.

The Bomb

girl you wanna sex me
girl, why don't you let
you really turn me on
I think we could swing it
girl that's why I'm sayin'
baby you're the bomb

You ever heard the song "My Prerogative" my Bobby Brown? Well, they jacked the score! When I first heard this song, I wondered where I'd heard the chorus before. Didn't Vanilla Ice pull this with Queen's Under Pressure? It did wonders for his career, so maybe this isn't such a big deal. I also hear a little quoting from "You Dropped the Bomb on Me".

Here if You're Ready

that's why i'm here
and i'm not gonna waste my time (here if your ready)
a love like this is hard to find (here if your ready)
and i can't get you off my mind

Well, like the macaroni commercial says...It's the cheesiest. More whining, more corny lyrics, more studio enhancements. Disappointing end to the album.

The producers of this album should have taken a cue from I Swear. These boys are talented. They sing best a cappella and they have very real talent. I look forward to hearing more from them, but this album, over all, is a bust. I have to recommend it, grudgingly, because of this one hit single.


Recommended: Yes