A Place Called Love Land

Editors’ Notes Born in New Jersey but raised in Washington, D.C., Raheem DeVaughn is a veteran of the neo-soul R&B scene; he released his debut album, The Love Experience, back in 2005. Working with the likes of DJ Jazzy Jeff, Jill Scott, and Kenny Dope, he has an extremely devoted fanbase (especially among the ladies), and he's also released the hit albums Love Behind the Melody and The Love & War MasterPeace. On this outing, he parts company with the Jive/Zomba label and goes the independent route, but his trademark ultra-smooth vocals, throwback style, and hyper-romantic lyricism haven't changed a bit. Produced by Mo Digga, Dre King, Carvin & Ivan, and others, this is straight-up bedroom music: less explicit than some of his contemporaries but far from subtle. It's undeniably seductive and always soulful. Highlights include the two-timing jam "Wrong Forever," the piano-propelled "Pink Crush Velvet," and "Make a Baby," full of freaky synths that conjure memories of Mr. Hands–era Herbie Hancock.