In a genre often overwhelmed with flash and flamboyance, Gerald Levert is a low-key love man. The son of O'Jays belter Eddie Levert, Gerald has served up a string of hits since the mid-80s, either with the trio LeVert ("Casanova"), the 90s supergroup LSG ("My Body"), or as a solo artist. Yet despite his sustained success, he remains under appreciated, which is a shame because what the gruff-voiced singer lacks in Q-ratings he makes up for with his rugged delivery of romantic songs. His first album since 1999's G is another collection of tough but tender R&B--grown-up, in focus but laced with just enough edgy attitude. The down-home, late-night "Soul Mate" and the unabashedly sentimental ballad "Made to Love Ya" find Gerald testifying passionately about love and life's ups and downs. Without breaking a sweat, he gives better-known superstars something to aim for. --Amy Linden