CD review
Lenny Kravitz
‘Baptism’

Rapidly approaching the benchmark age of 40 (he’ll hit it on May 26), Lenny Kravitz showcases a split personality on his seventh studio album, “Baptism.” On the one hand, he glories in the success he's had, “I'm internationally known” he sings and casually tosses off lyrics about partying with Jagger and Dylan. On the other, he yearns for a simpler life:

“I don't wanna be a star, just want my Chevy and an old guitar.” Of course, he can't have it both ways and knows as much which leads to reflective tunes such as “Where are We Runnin’?” and “What Did I Do with My Life?” There’s also a yearning for spiritual guidance in the form of “Calling All Angels” and “Baptized,” which slowly builds from a plaintive ballad to a full-blown gospel reverie and back again.

Kravitz's reach exceeds his grasp at times, but you've got to admire the guy's soul searching and putting those feelings into song. As has long been the case, he sometimes gets lazy lyrically — “She makes me feel good, like a real woman should” from “Lady” is the most obvious and trite example — but he salvages tunes with strong musical hooks. It's hard to believe it's been 15 years since Lenny burst onto the national music scene with “Let Love Rule,” but he's nothing if not consistent and “Baptism” is another sturdy effort. B

— by Thomas Bond, Get Out