The lauded voice behind such R&B/crossover hits as “Baby, Come to Me” and “How Do You Keep the Music Playing” teams with producer Paul Brown (Al Jarreau, Boney James, George Benson) on her 15th outing. Musically, this mix of R&B, jazz, and pop doesn’t stray far from Austin’s trademark sound. And, unfortunately, given radio’s narrow state of mind, this album won’t get the play it may deserve. But it contains several rewarding moments in which fans will surely revel. Highlights include the friendship-themed “Girlfriend” (whose co-writers include Austin and Brown), “What Can I Say?,” the title track (co-written by Siedah Garrett), “Playin’ Around,” “If You Really Need Me Now” featuring Boney James (which also reteams Austin with duet partner James Ingram), and “Let Me Be Me”—which sums up in a nutshell Austin’s aim to musically do just that.—GM
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