‘New World’ Showcases the Timelessness of Mayfield

*** CURTIS MAYFIELD “New World Order”, Warner Bros.

The urban landscape has only gotten bleaker since Mayfield sang “Freddie’s Dead” 24 years ago. But even after he was paralyzed in a 1990 stage mishap, Mayfield’s stern yet loving tone and firm optimism haven’t wavered. “Ms. Martha” is a portrait of a stoic, elderly woman, but you wonder if he isn’t talking about himself when he sings, “The reason why I haven’t passed away / I lived to make sure you’d see a better day.”

Mayfield’s stance is more paternal than brotherly now, and he does sermonize on the title track and the heavy-handed “The Got Dang Song.” But the understated fire of his delivery remains both reasoned and compelling, and the message of community strength and pride resonates stronger than ever.

Most important, Mayfield commands--and receives--paternal respect in the collaborations here with such younger figures as the Organized Noize team and Daryl Simmons. Never do new styles overshadow Mayfield’s trademark R&B; strengths, leaving the sounds--like the message--timeless rather than trendy.

Albums are rated on a scale of one star (poor), two (fair), three (good) and four (excellent).