Teedra Moses Cognac & Conversation

Teedra Moses, how we've missed you. Whether or not one recollects the New Orleans vocalist's 2005 debut Complex Simplicity (and singles "Backstroke" and "Be Your Girl"), her laid-back style of hip-hop/neo soul has been missing from the scene and played an integral role in shaping the contemporary R&B sound.
 
Cognac & Conversation is her long-awaited sophomore album, and recalls early 2000s R&B. Admittedly, things start off a tad on the sluggish side, as opener "RU Scared" doesn't really rise higher than average. It picks up with "All I Ever Wanted," which features Rick Ross, who generally is on his best behaviour with a PG-rated, cuss-free verse as the two ride a classic Camp Lo "Luchini (This is It)" sample. Ross makes another appearance on the album title track, which sparkles with a chilled out flow. The album high is achieved on lead single "Get It Right," which bumps "I ain't the average kind" vocals over a piano-driven beat that recalls her earlier output.
 
Cognac & Conversation is a breezy slice of R&B. Moses was seriously overdue; now, she's back. (Shanachie)