It was that “One Thing” in 2005 that gave Amerie her big breakout hit. However, her last studio album, In Love & War, was released in 2009. Since then, her presence has virtually disappeared from the music industry. So it only seems fitting that her new studio album is a double release. Amerie switched her career to pinning novels in the last few years, but now she’s back to music. Does her sultry and unique signature sound still remain intact?

Amerie’s new project is a double disc effort entitled 4AM Mulholland and After 4AM, respectively. Let’s start with 4AM Mulholland. Amerie opens the set with dreamy ballad “Curious”. The song is more melodic and less upbeat than the music from her first two albums. She’s sexier and more confident here, as she urges her lover to explore his curiosity…..and let her indulge in hers. “Amnesia” hoovers around the same vibe as its predecessor, culminating a relaxing atmosphere. 

There was clearly a goal to have one sound on the album. She sticks to singing in a lower register, peppered with auto tuned highlights. Unfortunately, this method of delivery masks the potential impact of tracks like “Not A Love Song”. The song’s clever lyrics detail her knowledge of a cheating boyfriend. She’s fine with it, but she’s doing the same thing too. Chances are, you missed all of that behind the monotone sound of her voice. Nonetheless, this doesn’t prevent songs like the beautiful “A Heart’s for Breaking” from being one of the album’s brightest moments. 

Now, on to 4AM. “4The Lovers” adds in softer, rhythmic percussion lines that manage to not disturb the gentle melody. She showcases more of her register her, but the main theme is still sexy and sultry. “Give It All Up” takes a much needed departure, with a mid-tempo, vintage groove. The song finds Amerie boasting that she will make her lover change his bad ways before he met her.

The drum patterns alone on “Midnight Rain” are enough to sit up and take notice. Add in Amerie’s seductive tone over the track and it’s a full out seductive lullaby. She’s less coy and more direct on the addictive, “Don’t Say A Word”. The song’s lyrics and production have a pure 90s vibe that Amerie pulls off well. 

Although it’s great to hear new music from Amerie, her laser focus on her new projects (especially 4AM Mulholland ) fails to reintroduce the diverse facets of artistry. Don’t mistake it. Both albums are solid efforts and are enjoyable listens. However, that one sound she offers on both projects is one thing we could have had just a little less of.