Love After War (Deluxe Version)

Robin Thicke’s fifth album is a 21st-century update of the ‘70s R&B albums that balanced big ambitions with deeply felt emotions. The seductive title track and the bossa nova-tinged “Lovely Lady” illuminate Thicke’s loverman side; his fruitful partnership with the prolific MC Lil Wayne continues on the simmering “Pretty Lil’ Heart”; and the rallying cry “Never Give Up” combines Broadway bravado with Thicke’s chutzpah-filled vocal. Brimming with passion and heart, Love After War shows why Thicke quickly ascended to R&B’s upper echelons.