JOHN LEGEND
Once Again
Producers: various
G.O.O.D. Music/Columbia/Sony Urban
Release Date: Oct. 24

John Legend cranks the classic dial way up on sophomore effort "Once Again," a timeless, feel-good album that could easily slide into your papa's Sam Cooke and Percy Sledge collections, yet still sounds contemporary. This time around, the singer blends sandy vocals with dreamy background "oohs" and blissful keys, trumpets and flutes that enhance the old-school feel. On the will.i.am-produced lead single, "Save Room," he aches for tender moments with a partner, while "Stereo" takes a witty jab at gold-digging groupies and the endlessly catchy "P.D.A. (We Just Don't Care)" salutes public affection. Though Legend drastically trims the hip-hop edge that infused his superb debut, "Get Lifted," he makes room for his adulterous guilty pleasures ("Again") alongside whistle-worthy numbers ("Maxine") and '70s-style grooves ("Slow Dance") that ooze sophisticated charm. -- Clover Hope