Estelle

"Shine"

Atlantic / Homeschool Records

3 (of 4) stars

Estelle is committed to being your new hip-hop queen, assuming Lauryn Hill is out of your mind. This girl from London’s West End is more focused on her second disc thanks to the smooth producing hand of John Legend who makes distinctive pop and tempers Estelle’s raps with romance. The first half is Estelle seeking commitment from boyfriends and, likely, her new fans. She gets it with smooth R&B singing, an assured rap, a “wicked accent” and a vibrant view of her Atlantic crossing. Her first hit, “American Boy” captures her fascination with the USA though Kanye West’s rap doesn’t complement her enthusiasm. Instead, listen to the other tracks, all upbeat and full of shining moments like the percolating title tune that promises more upbeat hip-hop. We’ll commit.