I can't remember the last time I recommended an album. I listen to just about everything there is to listen to, but every once in a while something original stands out, hitting the right buttons.

Alicia Keys hit those buttons yesterday.

Yesterday I started coming down with something. Not sure what it is, but it's really doing a number on me. I'm assuming I caught it after spending all day Wednesday in the Iraqi Ministry of Defense building, talking nearly non-stop to some IqAF Colonels and the IqAF Chief of Staff about a million different issues that are about to sneak up on them and kick their arses. Lost my voice that day, but I found a virus that's now kicking my ass.

Anyways, feeling like crap yesterday I pulled up Alicia's new album, 'As I Am', and I can't say enough about it. It's her best. Almost every song was original, well played, well written, and uniquely Alicia. For the time spent listening to her sing I forgot all about feeling sick, or feeling down about being out here for the holidays. She is a one-of-a-kind singer and songwriter, and she just keeps getting better and better with age.

Of course I have to issue my Alicia Keys disclaimer when talking about the lady and her music. You see, Alicia and I once had 'a moment' together. Now, as a Gentleman I'll never go into details about what was shared, but it was life changing. Seriously, it was. No, I'm not kidding. Well, of course she wasn't there, but that doesn't mean anything. We still had a moment. Anways, her and I go way back so yes, there is some bias in my recommendation to go purchase her new album, but trust me, it's worth every penny.

So, go buy the CD, light some candles, turn down the lights, kick back with your Sugar Momma or Suggar Daddy, and enjoy the music.