Artist spotlight

The search for the next genuine contemporary R&B artist is over. Avant, 27, who first debuted with My Thoughts in 2000, is the answer for those who have longed for Marvin Gaye and surprise rose bouquets, which is what Avant promises in "This is Your Night," a single from DIRECTOR (Geffen Records), his fourth recording, Steamy lyrics are delivered honestly by this urban hottie, especially on the sexy "You Know What," featuring Lil' Wayne, which is exactly what you're hoping it is. On "'4 Minutes" and "'Mr. Dream," the artist, who began writing his own songs at age 14, charms listeners by pouring himself into both tracks and offering a refreshing drink amid a backdrop of lush melodies. Avant, who worked on Director with talent ed producers Jermaine Dupri and Bryan Cox, has a lot to offer his fans.

Trumpeter Roy Hargrove continues to demonstrate his talent and versatility by releasing simultaneously two new recordings, Distractions with the RH Factor and Nothing Serious with the Roy Hargrove Quintet, both on Verve Music. On Distractions, Hargrove and his jazz fusion RH Factor deliver a vibrant set of tunes, all written by Hargrove or co-written with featured vocalist and keyboardist Renee Neufville. On the straight-up jazz set Nothing Serious, Hargrove is backed by his quintet. Joining the trumpeter are Ronnie Matthews on piano, Dwayne Burno on bass, Willie Jones III on drums and Justin Robinson on alto sax and flute.

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