Rhythm and Blues Xmas Ball Review: An Heartfelt Journey Returning to the Nineties
The second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a lineup of artists renowned for their holiday albums. Rather than centering on carols, the night acted as a nostalgic reason for a trip back to the sincere and heart-rending style of 90s R&B.
Opening Acts: Classic Feelings
The group Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in coordinated outfits, with videos from the 2000s era displaying on screens behind them. Next, a performance of mostly slow jams from Joe prepared the audience for the main artists.
The Powerful Set
The beginning of the song Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical legacy. Initially, her show with a live band appeared rooted in the era of her greatest fame.
However, nine songs into her set, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might never sing live again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a profoundly heartfelt moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.
Driving guitar chords then catapulted the crowd into Long As I Live, cementing her command over the crowd's hearts. She encored with an flawless, though somewhat abridged, rendition of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.
Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters
Appearing on stage in dazzlingly matching all-white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating awe-inspiring three-part vocals that were both precise and responsive to their accompaniment.
Their set featured interpretations of influences, including a standout guitar piece on Purple Rain, and songs influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Touch of Christmas Cheer
Towards the end, the concert turned to the Christmas mood with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a strong finale of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Overall Thoughts
While the night's production experienced some hiccups, and the feeling at times was of artists performing a tribute to their past selves, the overall result was transportive. The crowd was temporarily transported to the peak era of R&B, leaving dusted with glitter rather than frost.
