On Alicia Keys’ previous CDs, the gifted singer-songwriter-pianist presented songs that were epic and impeccable — moreso than her actual albums. Tunes like Fallin’, If I Ain’t Got You and Like You’ll Never See Me Again are timeless grooves that helped make the R&B singer a global, Grammy-winning superstar.

What’s unfortunate is that The Element of Freedom, Keys’ fourth studio release, does not have a jam as outstanding as her past hits. Most of the songs are mediocre, like the first single, the empty-sounding Doesn’t Mean Anything. Even her duet with Beyonce on the Swizz Beatz-produced Put It In a Love Song, is a disappointment — it’s an amateurish dance tune on which the guest overpowers the main star.

Perhaps the best thing you can say about Freedom is that the songs mesh well, and create a smooth sound, albeit weak one.

Of course, Keys’ soaring voice always shines, even on so-so songs. It especially stands out on the yearning Un-thinkable (I’m Ready), the gloomy but groovy opening track, Love Is Blind” and Try Sleeping With a Broken Heart, an elevated drum-filled pop ballad that showcases the singer’s versatility.

Keys, who isn’t known for collaborating with many artistes on her own CDs, enlists music’s most anticipated singer-rapper, Drake, on Un-thinkable (I’m Ready). The newcomer takes a back seat to Keys by singing background vocals. She takes you on a lovely, magic carpet ride on this “ready for love” tune.