Already riding high on the hip-hop charts with Chingy’s “Right Thurr,” Capitol strides into R&B territory with Javier. On this strong debut, the confident singer/songwriter/musician calls to mind another talented wunderkind, Alicia Keys. Javier covers all the bases, from R&B and funk to rock, Latin and jazz, reflecting such influences as Donnie Hathaway, Stevie Wonder and Sam Cooke. But the multi-instrumentalist does it in a style all his own. Lilting lead single “Crazy” carries an infectious hook that keeps you humming long after the last note has sounded. And Javier’s sweet tenor is showcased to maximum effect on the spare, tender ballad “Song for Your Tears” and the compelling “In Your Hands.” Definitely log this album under the winner category.—GM
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