Keri Hilson - No Boys Allowed

Let me start off with one word: BOW! Keri Hilson returned this week with her sophomore effort "No Boys Allowed" (even though it contains a number of male features). I have found that many argue its not as good as her first; however, I would beg to differ. On "Boys," Ms. Hilson has found a way to infuse her style with modern beats and production that make for a most commercial and enjoyable album.

The album kicks of with the banger Buyou featuring J. Cole. Not a personal favorite; however, the cut has a similar vibe to Keri's #2 hit "Turnin' Me On" and I can see this following suit commercially.

"Pretty Girl Rock" is highly catchy, as is "The Way You Love." Interestingly, those two tracks were chosen as the first "official" single and a teaser track; however, they are no where near the strongest on the album.

Now let's move onto "Bahm Bahm." Produced by Polow Da Don, this reggae infused track is sensual and finds Keri absolutely bouncing and riding along the beat. "One Night Stand" featuring Chris Brown (their third collaboration) is an album highlight. The pair sing "You should stay another night with me, a one night stand is all I need" and the chemistry between the young artists is undeniable on record.

"Lose Control" is screaming to be released. Keri belts "Shake! Wind! And roll! Let's lose control!" The mid-tempo jam features a short (albeit unnecessary) verse from Nelly and if released, should definitely be another hit for Ms. Keri baby. Pop radio needs this track.

At this point, Keri finally slows down with the Danja produced "Toy Solider" and the Timbalad/J Roc produced "Breaking Point." The production on these tracks really help elevate their quality, as Keri's voice is layered for a surround sound-like audio experience. These two tracks are most reminiscent of her earlier work, as is the closing track "All of The Boys."

However, the party doesn't slow down long. Also produced by Timbaland/J Roc is my favorite album cut "Beautiful Mistake." This jam relays the tale of a relationship that has just sort of fizzled out. Keri singes "Wish we never crossed the line, wish I never gave you this booty" over a thumping beat. She then goes on to declare that the pair was a beautiful mistake "but it is what is it." No hard feelings, sometimes people really are better of as friends.

Nearing the end, of the standard version at least, Keri delivers that absolute best song on the LP, "Gimme What I Want." This song MUST be an Urban single. No questions about it. This is a true southern, club ANTHEM! The lyrics "I want it up, down, round and round, pull it down on me NOW," which can be found in the chorus, solidify Keri's return.

No Boys Allowed is a stunning effort by Keri Hilson that is simply a collection of amazingly well produced and crafted, single-worthy songs. I'm definitely going to have this one on repeat, well in the the new year!

CWH's Picks: Gimme What I Want, Lose Control, & Beautiful Mistake