In "Fan Mail," the title track of the most popular album in the country, funky torch trio TLC perform what might qualify as the first stalking song written by superstars for fans. "Welcome," says a Speak-and-Spelly robotic voice, "we've dedicated this album cover to every person who has ever sent us fan mail"— thousands of which persons' names are crammed into the album art. Within the first few seconds, TLC open up and admit that they get lonely, just like you and me. Draping their silk'n'lace harmonies atop post-drum'n'bass stutter-step beats, the girls slide through my speakers, lean on my shoulder, and whisper in my ear, serving up disconcerting, frothy platitudes that would get me served with a restraining order if roles were reversed. It gives me the creeps as much as Mr. Rogers did when he... More >>>