The All That Music and More Festival: 98*, Monica, B*witched, Tatyana Ali, and more
Date: July 25 & 27, 1999
Location: Irvine Meadows Amphitheater; Irvine, CA & Universal Amphitheater; Universal City, CA
Rating: 
and 1/2
This star-studded show isn't your average concert. Sponsored by Nickelodeon and complete with auditions for two of the network's current TV shows, a karaoke stage, mini-thrill rides, and autograph signings with some of the concerts hottest acts, this is children's entertainment at its best. However, that's not to say everyone won't enjoy the show. Acts vary from city to city, but the two shows I saw showcased 7 different acts. Included among this list were California-based pop group No Authority, 12-year-old cutie Aaron Carter (yes, Nick's brother), up-and-comers EYC, Fresh Prince alumni Tatyana Ali, the Irish version of the Spice Girls called B*Witched, R&B queen Monica, and hot heartthrobs 98 Degrees. With a star-packed show like this one, it seems like boredom wouldn't be an issue. Unfortunately, it was.
The show started with a bang, with the No Authority boys revving the teenage girls into frenzy. Their energy packed choreography and catchy tunes are one of the highlights of the entire show. Don't miss their autograph signings before and after their performance! The guys are sweet and more than willing to sign any (and every) body part. Definitely keep an eye out for these hotties.
Next up on the stage was the adorable Aaron Carter, a twelve-year-old bounding bundle of energy. He kept the high vibe rolling with his spirited performance of songs from his album, being released in the year 2000. The only semi-scary element were his overzealous dancers, who at one point begin to twitch and seizure during the performance; it seemed a bit inappropriate for a twelve-year-old's accompaniment. Other than that, Aaron's charming personality, beautiful, clear voice, and catchy tunes are sure to make him a star. Look out Nick, the younger Carter Boy is out to make a name for himself.
After beginning with such high notes, I expected to see the show only get better. EYC, however, turned in a disappointing performance. While their single "This Thing Called Love" is a hit, the group itself leaves a bit to be desired. Trey, Damon, and Dave, the three EYC members, are all excellent dancers, but the focus of the performance seems to be on the choreography and not the vocals, a circumstance that isn't exactly easy on the ears. Trey seems to be the most successful in the vocals department, while Damon puts in a good effort. Dave, on the other hand? Well, let's just say that this concert-goer is still wondering whether Dave does anything else but stare bug-eyed at girls in the front rows while pulling his shirt up to show his abs, let alone sing. I spent most of their performance shuddering, gagging and trying to keep my lunch down. In fact, the second time I saw the show, I had to go outside after Aaron Carter and didn't come back inside until Monica performed (hey, so what if No Authority was outside signing autographs and looking oh-so-cute!).
Up next was actress-turned-singer Tatyana Ali, who performed a somewhat short set. After seeing her last April as the opener for *Nsync, I wasn't expecting much, but suprisingly, Tatyana's performance has improved tremendously. The lackluster set, however, could be due to the fact that Tatyana follows three male acts; the plain truth is that the audience just won't respond the same way. The highlight of Tatyana's set would be the tribute to her "big brother" Will Smith, where she covers "Men In Black" and "Miami" among others.
The fourth performer of the evening brought a little piece of the United Kingdom to the U.S. Irish pop girls B*Witched, who spent most of the earlier part of the year as openers for *Nsync and 98 Degrees' "Heat it Up" Tour, have taken America by storm. The younger generation especially appreciates the group's special brand of upbeat pop. By combining the elements of pop and dance music with a traditional Irish beat and fun lyrics, B*Witched is a favorite among audience members. The choice of songs drags somewhat, as the girls perform five to six songs, with each of their hits situated on either end of the set. The audience only really goes wild on the last song of the set, "C'est La Vie," the group's most well-known hit. After seeing B*Witched five times now, I can truly say that these girls grow on you, somewhat like the acquired taste of champagne.
R&B chart-topper Monica took the stage next, complete with fairy tale fanfare. With a white castle for a set and five dancers dressed as knights- in shining armor, Monica's performance was overstated, to say the least. As wonderful a singer as Monica is, her voice was overshadowed by an underlying pompousness. It's okay to let the fans tell the singer that they're great, but don't let the singer tell the fans how great he or she is. One highlight of Monica's performance, however, was the performance of the hit single "Angel Of Mine," in which the audience participated, and loudly I might add. It's a beautiful song that's even better when hundreds of people join in.
Last, but definitely not least, was the foursome from Ohio, 98 Degrees. Complete with a futuristic beginning, the 98 boys put on a decent show. While their costumes leave a little something to be desired (camouflage pants, no shirt and an artillery vest? What were you thinking?), their vocals will blow you out of your seat. The group performs a set comprised mostly of their new album material, as well as their hit "Invisible Man" (from their debut CD) and spirited renditions of "Pretty Fly (For a White Guy)", "Superstition," "1999," and Eminem's "My Name Is." One disappointing addition: two female dancers to accompany the boys; hey aren't that great… and does anyone really watch them anyway? The dancers take away from the performance, rather than add to it, and their inclusion in the show seems a bit out of place.
Overall, the All That Festival was an enjoyable time, even the second time around, minus the lackluster performances. If you decide to spend your hard-earned cash on this event, make sure you put your money to good use. Participate in the auditions, ride the rides, meet the stars, dance, sing and clap along; it's the only surefire way to get your money's worth.
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