Nothing Better

Strawberri’s first full-length album Nothing Better features her two sleeper-hit singles, the suggestive and surprisingly witty “Saddle You Up,” and the sensual ballad “Secret,” both of which emphasize her smooth, smoky, laid-back vocals. Similarly, the sleek, understated production values of the title track and “What Ever” give Nothing Better a sophisticated polish. Though album tracks like “How Low” and “1 Thing 2 Another” aren’t quite as distinctive as Strawberri’s singles, ballads like “Play If You Wanna Play” and “The Daddy Song” lend an emotional pull to this accomplished collection of sensitive, sensual R&B songs. – Heather Phares