Donnell Jones: Journey of a Gemini “The Epitome of Consistency” An Album
Review by Nfared

Donnell Jones knows what works for him. So more than likely, he probably
won’t be seen poppin and lockin and sliding across a stage in moonwalk
fashion. He has instead chosen to stay with his smooth, laid back style for his
fourth album, “Journey of A Gemini”. Few artists can say that they have
stayed with the same formula for more than one album. Perhaps there is something
to that old adage about if something ain’t broke...

“Special Girl” finds Donnell delving in the dating subject matter. He is
confident, “all you singles ladies best look out for me/I’m the hottest
single nigga to step on the scene…” and sure of what he wants, “don’t
get it twisted thinkin imma suga daddy/you can look like Holly/wit an ass like
JLo and a smile like Janet/but that’s not enough.” The slightly jazzy
midtempo track is fluid and was made for Donnell. On “Portrait Of A Woman”,
Donnell experiences what can happen when men in relationships make mistakes. He
is honest, speaking to himself initially. He then makes a bold move that is rare
among male artist and speaks to the male listeners, all in the same verse,
“I’ve done my girl so wrong/and I don’t know what I was thinking/and now
she’s gone/men why do we treat women so cold/when we come from one/because you
wouldn’t do your mother wrong.” He goes back and forth throughout the
ballad, speaking to women as well. Though titled to
the female side, he successfully executes addressing both of the sexes without
tearing down either one of them. The clever “Cuttin Me Off” is about trust.
Donnell, in an attempt to explain his whereabouts, is not making headway,
“…I been chillin wit my boys at the…/won’t you let me finish/…and yo
girl told gone tell you she saw me wit some chick/but ain’t told you she been
tryin to get with/girl let me finish.” The importance of communication in any
relationship is a clear message throughout the song, especially as he obviously
gets frustrated, “won’t you shut up/let me explain/imma tell you exactly
where I was/but you/cut cuttin me off…”

Needle Meter There are a lot of secrets when it comes to male artist in the
industry. Joe is extremely talented, yet can’t seem to say in the spotlight
for more than a few singles. Dave Hollister is brilliant yet underexposed due to
a lack of promotion. Donnell Jones seems to be riding with this heat,
experiencing a few pushbacks and little label backing for this album.
Nevertheless, he gives a complete effort that will please his current fans and
draw a few new ones. His label could learn a lot from him about performance.
Four Needles
















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