Entertainment Weekly - p.70
"[T]he singer hints at mature contentment on her fourth CD...while retaining some angry edge." --
Grade: B
Personnel: Monica (vocals); Swizz Beatz, Twista, Dem Franchize Boyz (rap vocals).
On her fourth album, 2006's THE MAKINGS OF ME, R&B star Monica returns with an assured set of hip-hop-tinged tunes. Presenting an edgier image than on past releases, the Atlanta, Georgia-based vocalist collaborates with her hometown's snap-music soldiers Dem Franchize Boys on the hard-hitting "Everytime Tha Beat Drop," but is still capable of sensual moments, as on the smooth, Curtis Mayfield-sampling "Dozen Roses."