November 29, 2000 10:32

REFORMED CHARACTERS

Ther influential hip-hop soul group are finally back after much speculation and anticipation...

JODECI, seen as the definitive hip-hop soul group of the '90s, are to finally reform.

After years of speculation and anticipation DEVANTE SWING, MR DALVIN, KC-I and JOJO are going back into the studio to work on the follow-up to 1995's 'The Show, The After Party, The Hotel'.

Fans will remember that Jodeci, under the tutelage of Sean 'Puffy' Combs, were responsible redefining the look and sound of male contemporary soul music. They refused to adhere to the established image of the male soul group, preferring to don hip-hop fatigues instead of suits. They collaborated with rappers like Tupac rather than fellow balladeers. Their success inspired a range of copycat groups like Dru Hill, Jagged Edge, Ideal and 112.

Jodeci, who preceded the release of 'The Show' with 'Forever My Lady' and the highly influential 'Diary Of A Mad Band', will release their comeback album next year. Although the group's founder member and creative force Devante Swing has remained silent during the group's absence, Kc-i and Jojo release their third album 'X' next week (check out NMESOUL's exclusive review), while Devante's brother, Mr Dalvin dropped his debut solo album, 'Met.A.Mor. Phic' earlier this year.