Amel Larrieux

There's something inherently endearing about Amel Larrieux. Perhaps it's her gentle, yet unrestrained voice, or her relaxed contentment after years as a successful independent artist. Or maybe it's her admission to mixing up laundry and crying over silly commercials, as she sings on the charming "Have You." Regardless, Ice Cream Everyday is certain to sustain that affection amongst her core fans, and hopefully draw in some new ones. Together with producer/husband Laru, Amel presents an eclectic variety of R&B that's fresh and proof that the do-it-yourself approach can be done damn well. Up-tempo songs like the vicious, funky "Orange Glow" and "You Don't See" are guaranteed to get necks snapping, while slower ballads like "I Do Take" and "Don't Let Me Down" remind us how wonderful Larrieux's voice and songwriting are. The album ends on a slightly awkward note with subtle alternative mixes of "I Do Take" and "Danger," along with the experimental "Trapped Human Being," in which Larrieux's vocals are garbled beyond recognition for an effect that likely won't inspire repeated listening. Regardless, the bulk of this album is solid and Amel's best solo effort yet.