Album of the Day

Contemporary R&B lost one of its most seductive voices in November 2006 with the passing of Gerald Levert. He and coproducer Edwin "Tony" Nicholas had already completed work on IN MY SONGS, and the album was released a few months later on Atlantic Records. Its dozen originals include something for every mood, from upbeat floor-fillers (“DJ Don't”) to smooth balladry (the title track). The set's variety and romanticism harken back to the glory days of '70s soul  (Philadelphia International masterminds Gamble & Huff helped cowrite the closing “Is This The Way To Heaven?”) while remaining entirely of-the-moment. At 40, Gerald Levert left us far too soon, but the Grammy-winning IN MY SONGS ensures that his talent will not be forgotten.