Omar

Best by Far, Omar's fifth album, trailed This Is Not a Love Song by four years and duly pleased the majority of his fan base by merely existing. It's another eclectic set that dips into a number of styles of the time -- flashes of garage, broken beat, club-oriented soul-pop, and easy listening are present, but it's an Omar album through and though, just as much as any of its predecessors. There are a few moments when the album falters in its lack of focus, as if Omar is trying to make up for lost time by throwing everything into the pot, but at least 30 minutes here stand up well next to his previous best work. [Note: Depending on the territory of release, the album varies in its bonus remixes, and -- bizarrely -- the cover of William DeVaughn's "Be Thankful for What You've Got" may feature either Angie Stone or Erykah Badu.] ~ Andy Kellman, All Music Guide