By Jae-Ha Kim
Chicago Sun-Times
March 22, 2000
On their second album, “No Strings Attached,” the members of ‘N Sync get down and even a little dirty.
But is that such a good idea? Do we really want to hear them shout out “Ho, ho, ho!” on the rambunctious “Just Got Paid,” and wonder if they’re repeating Santa’s mantra or are referring to that other kind of ‘ho?
The singers–who are depicted as marionettes on the CD cover–are attempting to grow as artists. As the tongue-in-cheek title contends, they have more control of their careers than people realize. ‘N Sync’s old label learned that when the group sued for the right to move to Jive Records, which released this disc.
Originally slated as a pre-Christmas release, “No Strings Attached” was held until ‘N Sync settled in at Jive. The songs have a slightly harder edge this time around. Five of the 12 songs were co-written by lead vocalists J.C. Chasez and Justin Timberlake.
OK. Whatever.
But given the choice between a handful of tepid songs co-written by band members or a Max Martin gem such as “Tearin’ Up My Heart” (from the debut album, which sold 10 million copies), I’ll opt for the latter every time.
The annoying first single, “Bye Bye Bye,” has been a staple of pop radio and MTV since January. It soon will clear the airwaves to make room for the gorgeous ballad “This I Promise You.” Written by Chicago native Richard Marx–who in the ’80s wrote and sang the kind of songs that have become hits for the likes of ‘N Sync and the Backstreet Boys–“Promise” begins with Timberlake’s soulful delivery: “When the visions around you/bring tears to your eyes/And all that surround you/Are secrets and lies/I’ll be your strength.”
What 12-year-old isn’t going to swoon over that? But then Timberlake takes the song to a higher level, using delicate vocal inflections to draw out every raw emotion in the song.
The group is at its best on simple ballads. And each member gets a chance to showcase his vocal skills on an a cappella version of “I Thought She Knew.”
Less impressive is “Space Cowboy (Yippie-Yi-Yay),” featuring TLC’s fire-happy Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes. ‘N Sync rapping? Nah, that’s out of sync.
Rating: ** 1/2
I remember buying this album, when I was 17, in 1999. I like ALL of their albums. Everytime I hear their duet with Left Eye From TLC, it makes me remember what a great rapper she was. She left a mark on the world with her songs. N*Sync are probably the only 90’s boyband to not have reunited so far. I also have a crush on Justin Timberlake. I can see why Britney Spears would date him 🙂