Alicia Keys' considerable talents are no secret six years after her auspicious debut, "Songs in A Minor." However, those gifts shine with a ripening maturity and depth on her third studio outing. From the opening strains of the classical overture that introduces this aptly titled album, Keys continues to fearlessly resist the cookie-cutter norm. On her most personal record to date, love (of self, a significant other, family) and life lessons are the primary themes. The strong stories that Keys spins are complemented by deft musical arrangements that integrate more rock and pop into her enriched old-school vibe. Beyond hit single "No One," notable tracks include the female anthems "Superwoman" and "Go Ahead," the drum- and horn-embellished "I Need You" and the poignant "Thing About Love." Closer "Sure Looks Good to Me" says it all: "I'm gonna risk it all/The freedom to fall/Yes, it sure looks good to me." —Gail Mitchell