Keith Sweat - Live (2003)

The tireless, hardworking Sweat has been one of the most popular voices in modern R&B, finding ways to stay fresh and romantic while mixing tight hip-hop energy with old-school seduction. The key to this ultra-sensual, hour-long Washington, D.C., concert experience comes when the singer asks, "How many lovers in the house tonight?" Because just about every track after the clap-along "Something Just Ain't Right" is a lush musical love letter. The way Sweat and his band textures backing vocals makes this something of a church experience, with an urgent love message being conveyed by Pastor Keith as the choir echoes in the background. One of the greatest treats is the sexy "My Body," where the "chorus" is actually fellow modern soul brothers Gerald Levert and Johnny Gill. You may not sweat from over-groovin', but the passionate heat his productions stir up may do the trick. ~ Jonathan Widran