Despite avoiding a conventional tune, Amerie’s 2005 hit 1 Thing was catchy enough to have governments stockpiling vaccine against it. Things appeared to have dwindled for her since but her third album marks her return with more of the hair-shaking, face-slapping attitude that made that single so addictive.

Because I Love It starts out at fever pitch and never calms down. Whether strutting through the earthy funk of Make Me Believe or hurling herself with Prince-style abandon at Hate2loveu and Take Control, Amerie carves out her own spot in a crowded market.

With a compelling voice and lyrics that manage to be sexily empowered without sinking into Beyoncé-style materialism, Amerie sounds like the kind of girl you wouldn’t want to cross. Luckily, Because I Love It gives you no reason to do so.

(Sony/BMG)

Editor's choice

• U2 at Nou Camp Stadium, Barcelona
• The 50 Best Movie Villains
• The 15 golden rules of theatre etiquette