Janet Jackson

Janet Jackson -- Miss Jackson, if you're nasty -- has moved on from the claustrophobic, S&M-inspired grooves found on 1997's The Velvet Rope to more routine dirty talk on All for You. But sound architects Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, the beatmasters who've guided her to superstardom, surround her in customary jams that come off as just a little too lifeless. After four years of semi-inactivity for Jackson, All for You indeed sounds as though it was made for fans. And like her most contrived work, 1993's Janet, it's a bit impersonal. There were strong declarations of independence on Control, Rhythm Nation, and Velvet Rope, but All for You seems to be mostly about the Benjamins . . . or at least keeping the music safe enough to reel in the CD buyers. And it's worked: The album debuted at No. 1, and Jackson's been filling nearly every venue she's played. There was a bumpy start to the tour, however, as opening dates were delayed because the massive amount of stage equipment used in putting on the show never made it to its destination. And just a couple of weeks ago, another show was postponed after Jackson chipped a tooth. Word is, the live show is aimed even more toward her fans than the new album. So expect plenty of hits, dancing, and stage flash -- everything her videos deliver and more. And there's great material here: "Nasty," "That's the Way Love Goes," "If," and "Got Til It's Gone." Plus a chance for one lucky audience member to be pulled onstage, tied up, and serenaded by Janet as she purrs, "I just want to kiss you, suck you, taste you, ride you" (from All for You's lascivious "Would You Mind"). All for you, indeed.