Spare a thought for poor R Kelly. First the Chicago-born RandB star is accused of being involved in an underage sex scandal. Then bootleg copies of his new album start appearing on the street before they've even been released, obliging him to go back into the studio and produce a whole new record's worth to keep his fans satisfied. The result is Chocolate Factory, a bumper collection of smoochy ballads from the self-styled King of Love that'll be sure to feature in every disco slow-set from now until Christmas. As befits Kelly's status, no expense has been spared - the production here is absolutely magnificent, taking in everything from heavenly choirs to funky Spanish guitars. But his lyrics are often irritatingly sleazy (sample: 'Let me stick my key in your ignition, babe') and 24 tracks over two CDs is probably more than most people can stomach without feeling a bit queasy. For chocolate addicts only.

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