Lloyd Brown: Deep

By GRAHAM REID

(Herald rating: * * * )

Known for his lovers rock style, Brit-reggae star Brown branches out into some harder styles, hooks in rapper Phoebe One for a toughened update of Marvin Gaye's Inner City Blues and impresses mightily over the long haul, although "make up your mind, my offer is good to go" isn't the strongest of pick-up lines, unless you're in the fast-food business.

Brown has a mellow and soulful touch (he played Otis Redding in a musical) who successfully brings pop sensibilities to consciousness music and here works with esteemed writer and producer Bitty McLean.

A little uneven in quality, but the diversity from bedroom narrative to natty never wearying is also its strength.

Label: Charm/King