POP MUSIC : In Brief

** 1/2 Ray Charles, “Strong Love Affair,” Qwest. After 47 years in the business, Charles still has the gift, but on this album he’s better served by the ballads than by the Vegas-esque, overwrought up-tempo numbers. Elegant slow-burners such as “Angelina” and “Separate Ways” prove that Brother Ray’s intense, deeply felt growls have a timeless quality. When harnessed properly, they haven’t lost a bit of intensity.