Is it possible that Diddy and his Bad Boy label may be regaining their legendary status of the late ’90s, with the recent success of not only Danity Kane but Day 26 as well?

Day 26 ( which refers to the day they were chosen to be in the group on the season finale of “Making the Band 4” on Aug. 26) released their self-titled debut album that went straight to #1, knocking the dolls from Danity Kane out of the top spot.

There has not been a truly talented male R’B group since the ’90s, but Day 26 certainly can fill that void; the only problem is that they are modern clones of the groups from R’B’s past.

In New Edition there was Ronnie, Bobbie, Ricky, and Mike, but in Day 26 it’s Robert, Brian, Willie, Q, and Mike. The irony of this situation is that Michael Bivins from New Edition was one of the judges who helped Diddy choose the boys for the group. Also, the group shares an album cover that is very similar to New Edition’s Home Again CD.

It wouldn’t be an R’B album if it didn’t have those baby, baby, please take me back songs like, “Since You’ve Been Gone,” which showcases the group’s vocal compatibility, and “Just Should’ve Told You,” where the guys sing of love lost. The harmonies are reminiscent of Boys II Men and command the listener’s attention.

The first single “Got Me Going,” is a high energy song, and allowed the group to make a solid introduction onto the music scene. It is a simple song that displays all of the group member’s vocal talents.

The members of Day 26 are easily lost in all the instrumentation on the song “I’m the Reason.” While the lyrics are catchy, there is too much going on, and at times it feels like they are still competing against one another to make the band.

If you aren’t a fan of the group at least you’ve acquired a new word, “bitchassness,” which has already made its way to several MySpace page headlines and is now being sold on Sean John T-shirts. The word was used by Diddy when describing one member’s behavior when he said he didn’t show up to be a background singer.

The fact that they were featured on a reality show has definitely played a part in the success and sales of both Day 26 and Danity Kane, but no one should fault them for that.

The strategic move was one that took both groups to the top of the charts at a time when the industry was at a major low point.

While Diddy may not be the best rapper, he has proven that one thing he can do is make bands. After watching these men act like “boys” throughout the season and fight over everything, it is surprising that the album came out to be one that you can listen to from start to finish over and over again. It will be hard for critics to deny the talent and potential of this group.