Fresh R&B: Quick takes on new Keri Hilson, Paula DeAnda, Akon, and J.Hud

You know I feature a lot of pop, rock, and pop-punk stuff, but seldom do anything on R&B, but you can guess from my Top 20/25 playlists that I do have an open ear for it. Because I am all for equal-opportunity listening, here are a few "reviews" of the freshest releases in the genre...

Keri Hilson featuring Ne-Yo & Kanye West - Knock You Down: Keri Hilson finally released her debut album, which was two way-long years coming, and delivered with a song that is driven by its triumphant, pulsating beat and smooth vocals. I would categorize this song as a R&B epic -- not only for clocking in at a length of five and a half minutes, but because it also features two guest stars: male vocals by Ne-Yo (including a neat reference to his song "Miss Independent") and raps by Kanye.

Jennifer Hudson - If This Isn't Love: I didn't care much for her debut single "Spotlight" so I gave her new single a listen and the Ryan Tedder-like production and piano over R&B hooks caught my attention. This ballad is a grower, so who knows how well it'll do. Her vocal performance of the song on Idol, however, does makes it clear that this year's resident R&B diva-wannabe Lil Rounds truly pales in comparison.

Akon featuring Colby O'Donis & Kardinal Offishall - Beautiful: I liked the original mix which featured only Akon, but this version is definitely better. Colby's smooth vocals and Kardinal's rap added another dimension to the song. Electro-pop FTW!

Paula DeAnda - Roll The Credits: A few years ago, an up-and-coming R&B songstress delivered a few noteworthy songs like "Walk Away" and "Doing Too Much". Now she is back with an upcoming sophomore album this summer and this slow jam that was just released a few weeks ago. Paula's sweet croon and unique usage of cinematic metaphor definitely makes this song a keeper. Hoping radio embraces this one.