Because I Love It is Amerie's third album but this review will be based on the UK version of the album. The US version is scheduled for release in mid-July. So with the extra two months that version may be different from the one being reviewed now.

First off long time Amerie producer Rich Harrison is no longer in the picture & Amerie now has co-producer credit. But don't let that throw you off, the album features tracks produced by Cee-Lo, The Buchanans, Curtis Richardson & Bink. Most of the tracks are uptempo jams with that 80's inspired synth sound that's all the rage nowadays. There are also a few tracks that incorporate that Go-Go sound that made her song ''1 Thing'' such a hit. The ballads lend variety and are some of the better tracks on the album.

Vocally Amerie is on par with any of today's R&B vocalists and better than quite a few of them. Her Voice is strong & true & she never sounds like she's straining or overstepping. To go along with her co-producer credit she has also picked up co-writer credit. Here is where some may find the album falters. Most of the songs may be a little to sugary for more mature listeners whereas younger listeners will probably eat it up. A little more variety in this area would have made this album a lot better.

The thing with this album is that it's not built for US consumption. Which is why it probably was not released in the states. I wouldn't be surprised if a lot of these songs were re-mixed and a few guest appearances added before being released in the US [that's if it ever sees release in the US]. The tracks are fine but tastes differ between the US & the UK. So songs that work well in the UK may not appeal to US listeners & vice versa.

Overall the album is solid. There were a couple of tracks that I wasn't really feeling, but Amerie's vocals & uptempo songs just fit well with the hot months. Stand out tracks includ the ''Take Control'', ''That's What U R'' & ''Somebody Up There''. If you like artists like Joy Denalane or Amy Winehouse, than you should be fine in picking this joint up, the album definitely has a UK flavour to it. Otherwise you may wanna try before you buy.

SonicAmp Rating: 8/10