Splitting the difference between restrained, tasteful ‘quiet storm’ R&B and gleefully gaudy New Jack Swing, these luscious grooves kick off R&B’s modern era. Tracks like “The Boy Is Mine” and “Freak Me” establish a keyboard-drenched beat and a hook, then add layers of vocal melisma until they reach a boiling point. “Pony” and “Feenin’” are nakedly horny, but that also makes them vulnerable and almost sweet. “Waterfalls” is built around a deceptively tricky melody, befitting a track that takes you on an emotional rollercoaster.