JC Chasez, another boy band (N’SYNC) defector, has embarked on a solo conquest with the release of his new album, Schizophrenic.  Ok, so he’s no Justin Timberlake, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing.  Being in the shadow of JT has allowed for JC to be his own person.  As a result, JC has assembled quite an impressive debut, fusing pop, electronica, funk and soul. 

Assisted by long time friends Alex Greggs and Bradley Daymond (N’SYNC) and club/electronica gurus, Basement Jaxx, Chasez as strayed as far away from the pop scene as possible.  The lead single, “Some Girls (Dance With Women)” is an infectious track, filled with syncopated claps and bongo rhythms.  Don’t be fooled by the occasional electronic blips and surges.  This track is pure pop perfection.  “She Got Me,” sounds like a hybrid of Jamiroquai and early Michael Jackson.  Its nonchalant groove makes for great listening.

JC stretches his wings on the soulful Mercy sounding almost like fellow N’SYNC teammate Justin Timberlake.  Those N’SYNC fans looking for some familiarity will have to search a little but will find solace in “Build My World.”  JC's soft harmonies will take listeners back to the heights of his former gig.  JC flexes his muscles of maturity on “One Night Stand” crooning, “Just relax baby, don’t be shy/I’m gonna keep you satisfied/Just cause you’re my girl.”

Chasez's Schizophrenic is a risky release considering the success of Justin Timberlake.  As an artist, JC is his own man with his own well-crafted sound.  He may not become a huge star like Justin, but his talent will shine just as bright.   (2/04)