Jill Scott has done it again. Her fifth album is nothing short of a compilation of tight beats, smooth melodies, vibrant instruments and an amazing voice. She certainly keeps it real in The Real Thing: Words and Sounds Vol.3. With lyrics that range from strong sexual desire to melancholy woes of love lost to indignant proclamations of independence, her ability to turn common and frequently recycled themes of life and relationships into a poetic masterpiece is impressive.

Listeners are surprised and seduced with Jill’s personal yet candid tale of sexual desire in “Crown Royal” and “Epiphany”. She draws us in and allows us to experience her desire for love and her displeasure with loneliness in “My Love” and “Whenever You’re Around”. She also adds musical variety in her blues-sounding “Celibacy Blues” and rock-influenced “The Real Thing”. Her lyrical creativity, unexpected overt sexual tones along with talented producers make this album an enjoyable listen.

Compared to Scott’s previous work, The Real Thing… is not superior. Despite the musical and lyrical variations, the album turns out to be just a well executed R&B production. The sound and subject matter aren’t new to the scene. While Jill powerfully presents us with great sex, loneliness and righteous self proclamation, the end result is not originality. In a 2007 version of “Golden”, she revisits the inspirational theme-based idea in the track, “Hater”. Listeners are not provided the unique experience found in “Lyzel in E Flat” (Who is Jill Scott) and “Cross My Mind” (Beautifully Human).

However, her powerful and seductive voice and the poetic lyrics keep this album from being ordinary. She’s Jilly from Philly, and whatever she touches turns to gold. And this album is just that - golden.