LUVANMUSIQ

Musiq--formerly Musiq Soulchild--is one of the foremost figures in the neo-soul movement, as he deftly blends hip-hop-infused production and gangsta-lite loverman braggadocio with a vintage soul-funk feel that's scarce in contemporary R&B. Even when LUVANMUSIQ hits a club-bangin' apex, the classic grooves of his native Philadelphia are never far behind, as best heard on the album's debut single, "B.U.D.D.Y.," and "Makeyouhappy," which both swing with infectious T.S.O.P.-inspired string and horn lines over boom-bap beats. During the album's more sensual moments, Musiq recalls City of Brotherly Love soul icons the Delfonics, particularly on the album-closing "Lullaby." Though firmly rooted in his own time, Musiq respectfully cherry-picks the finest aspects of his city's musical past for a touch of class.

• Genre: Pop
• Format: CD
• Released: 03/13/2007