Ne-Yo’s fifth studio album, “R.E.D.,” combines elements of electronic dance music and traditional R&B to create a flavorful pop album. In songs like “Miss Right,” melodies build up in electric trance patterns, but drop as if the music hits a pillow. Ne-Yo’s soft voice accompanies crescendos like these to produce pleasantly smooth moments. In more conventional R&B tracks, heavy bass and blues guitar frolic in the background allowing Ne-Yo’s crystal clear vocals to trail off in interesting patterns. Songs like “Don’t Make Em Like You,” which features Wiz Khalifa, also include heavy bass to present another angle on Ne-Yo’s pop style. With appearances from others like Tim McGraw and Fabolous, Ne-Yo keeps the album varied enough for multiple listens.

Grade: B