Destiny's Child - Destiny Fulfilled (International Edition) (2004)

Some thought it would never happen, but after solo successes and a three-year hiatus the ladies of Destiny's Child have reunited for the eagerly-anticipated Destiny Fulfilled. The Houston-based trio of Kelly, Michelle and some girl named Beyonce follow up their mega successful Survivor with another album full of infectious dance grooves and melancholy tales of women done wrong. Lead single "Lose My Breath" is their first offering of the former. Backed by a kinetic marching band sample, they sing with an urgency that bolsters the Rodney Jerkins-produced track. Current single "Soldier" is more of the same. Featuring T.I. and Lil' Wayne, the song allows the trio to sing the praises of the kind of men they like.

Despite this one-two uptempo punch, DC does do ballads. They go old-school on the moving "If." Michelle, who has several impressive solos throughout, and Beyonce trade lines about finding and holding on to love. However, on "Bad Habit" the trio goes for the paint-by-numbers woman finding her inner-strength theme. Other highlights include the 9th Wonder and Beyonce-produced "Girl" and the midtempo gem "Free." --Rashaun Hall