Now I'm not gonna get into what's happening with R. Kelly & his personal life. My personal feelings on the matter is that what he does in his personal life is his own business. As long as he keeps making hot music, I don't have a problem with the man. Now prior to the release of Chocolate Factory I've had discussions with several of my friends about what they thought & if they would purchase the album. Most of them disagreed with my position & said they will no longer be supporting R. Kelly. ''Ignition'' hit the radio & they stuck to their guns. Then came the ''Ignition [Remix]'' & all of them changed their minds. That single by itself has made people focus on R. Kelly - the artist and the album helps to maintain that focus.

For those of you who managed to get their hands on a copy of the never released Loveland album you may have been a little concerned going into this one. While not a bad album, it definitely had some shortcomings. But several of the stand out tracks on that album made it onto Chocolate Factory.

Production on the album is top notch and R. Kelly still has the vocals. Guest appearances include Ja Rule, Ronald Isley, Fat Joe & BET's Big Tigger. But what impressed me most were the obvious simularities with his vocal & musical styles that are reminiscent of past greats like Al Green [on ''You Made Me Love You''] & Stevie Wonder [on ''Dream Girl'']. Although most younger listeners probably wouldn't pick that up, older listeners can appreciate it.

The albums main theme is the love of women in it's many forms: carnal, passionate, romantic & yes even forbidden. Most of the songs either tell a story or have some kind of message behind it.

Overall I'd have to say this is R. Kelly's best album since 12 Play. While their are some tracks that are a little better than others, not one is a major dissapointment. and the only thing i could find fault with is the appearance by Big Tigger. So if your under the age of 50 & can differentiate between an individuals personal & business life, then this is one album you should pick up. For those over 50, simply have your kids make you a copy. And for those who can't get with R. Kelly because of his current situation with the law, then, your lost.

SonicAmp Rating: 9/10