Eric Roberson: Mr. Nice Guy

The modern father of independent soul and two-time Grammy nominee, Eric "Erro" Roberson has broadened the boundaries for every R&B artist working outside of the machine. On his last LP, Music Fan First, that celebrated push felt contrived to reach a younger audience. With his ninth outing, Mr. Nice Guy, Roberson settles into his grown-man vibe and creatively challenges himself and his audience, yielding his most cohesive, joyful album since his Vault series. Fun, familiar, and occasional personal stories create an inviting, bump-free ride thanks to Erro's charm, guests Chubb Rock and Phonté, and a smart selection of producers who surround his tenor/baritone with soothing live instrumentation and cool alternative hip-hop tracks. From the house head pleaser "Fall" to the West Indian-tinged "Come With Me (feat. the Ones)," this album is almost "Picture Perfect." (4 out of 5 stars)