Various Artists

On a recent episode of his film-rating program, Roger Ebert awarded the Usher-starring In the Mix the "wagging finger of shame" because its makers refused to let reviewers see it prior to release -- a sure sign that it bites harder than a half-starved gator with an extra row of...

By Michael Roberts

December 8, 2005

Audio By Carbonatix

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On a recent episode of his film-rating program, Roger Ebert awarded the Usher-starring In the Mix the "wagging finger of shame" because its makers refused to let reviewers see it prior to release -- a sure sign that it bites harder than a half-starved gator with an extra row of teeth. If Ebert also analyzed CDs, he'd probably offer another digit to the disc's soundtrack, which isn't exactly a paragon of truth in advertising.

The Usher photo on the album's cover is guaranteed to excite his legions of supporters, who've been jonesing for new material for two years. But Usher actually appears on just one cut: "Sweat," a standard-issue Rico Love tune that features the Cuddly One on its chorus. The rest of In the Mix is listenable, with Keri Hilson's "Hands & Feet" being a bit better than that. Still, tracks by the likes of Ryon Lovett and Robin Thicke work far better as appetizers than the main course.

Wag that finger again, Rog. And make it the middle one.

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Michael Roberts began his career with Westword in 1990 as music editor. In 1999, he took on a new role, full-time media reporter, as author of a column called The Message. In 2008, he became the lead writer for Westword's news blog, The Latest Word, a position he held until January 2023. Michael continues to freelance for Westword, covering everything from business to sports and the media; he also contributes to Jazziz, a national music magazine. He holds a bachelor's degree from what is now Colorado Mesa University and master's degrees from the University of California, Los Angeles, and Northwestern University.

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