CORINNE BAILEY RAE
Corinne Bailey Rae
Producer: various
Capitol
Release Date: June 20

In March, Corinne Bailey Rae's self-titled debut landed in the top spot of the U.K. albums chart. While this feat will unlikely repeat in the United States, a debut recording as fine as this one deserves immediate attention. The Leeds native, who had a hand in writing all the album's songs, has a style that, depending on the track, recalls Rickie Lee Jones, Alicia Keys, Lizz Wright, Billie Holiday and Sia. Album opener "Like a Star" is breathtakingly beautiful and sets the tone for the delights that follow. Highlights include such funked-up jams as "Put Your Records On" and "I'd Like To," as well as the disco-kissed "Call Me When You Get This." Songs like "Breathless" and "Choux Pastry Heart" detail the ups and downs, respectively, of love. Throughout, enchantment reigns supreme. -- Michael Paoletta