Maxwell's long awaited fourth album topped the charts its opening week with great cause. BLACKsummers'night is a piece of R&B art. The album's soulful sound is a beautiful blend of drums, guitar, horns and of course that familiar falsetto voice that has been missing from R&B.

Maxwell along with Hod David, a producer that has accompanied Maxwell on previous albums, join forces to produce an album that is not overwhelmed with many of today's studio tools. Production is solid and clearly displays Maxwell's maturity as his voice flows smoothly throughout.

The album contains nine tracks and is one of three albums, the remaining two to be released over the next few years. Only thirty-seven minutes long, there is not one wasted minute. This is the first album in awhile that can be played without skipping a track. The first two singles "Pretty Wings" and "Bad Habits" stay true to Maxwell's essence. Maxwell's voice has never sounded better as he sings with passion, on tracks "Stop the World", "Fistful of Tears", and "Playing Possum".

An eight year hiatus has does Maxwell well. As the album ends, you will definitely want more, next time the wait won't be so long.

a.c.e.

SonicAmp Rating: 9/10