BRANDY “Human” (Epic) Grade: B-plus

Considering Brandy’s rocky recent past, the sweet serenity and uplifting R&B anthems that fill her new album, “Human,” are nothing short of stunning.

Although she doesn’t address the 2006 car accident that killed another driver on a Los Angeles freeway, Brandy is definitely a changed woman on her fourth album.

“These scars I’ve got, they’re a part of who I am,” Brandy sings on “Camouflage.” “Take me or not, but I finally understand. I’m so done trying to be everything you want.”

“Camouflage” is a worthy cousin to Beyonce’s “Irreplaceable” that should share similar success, but it’s more about esteem-raising and self-improvement than a search for a sassy put-down.

It’s a feeling so ingrained in “Human” that the silky R&B anthem “Warm It Up With Love” isn’t just one of the album’s standout tracks, but its guiding principle.

With the help of producer Rodney Jerkins, Brandy radiates warmth and hopefulness throughout “Human,” not in the naive way of someone who doesn’t know any better, but in the determined way of someone who does.

Her delivery on the up-tempo “Right Here (Departed)” and the touching ballad “Long Distance” reflects those choices. There’s no showing off with vocal acrobatics or flashy production, just a premium on the melody and the mood.

With “Human,” Brandy has created an album of soulful solace that she seemed to need for herself. Then, she graciously shares it with the rest of us.

By Glen Gamboa / McClatchy Tribune