People have always said that Keyshia was a little rough around the edges, and that was fine, especially considering all the Mary J. Blige comparisons. Although it took Keyshia’s first single with Kanye West, “I’ve Changed My Mind” a long time to jump off, and then her second single, “(I Just Want It) To Be Over” took off with flying colors, The Way It Is proved itself to be a great R&B album. It took you back with songs like, “Thought You Had My Back” and Keyshia found a real place in the industry as a serious artist – from award show performances, to her own reality TV show. Now she’s back to show she’s got even more staying power with Just Like You.

Just Like You, production-wise and melodically is completely different from The Way It Is. This time, Keyshia tapped bigger named producers such as Bryan-Michael Cox, Scott Storch, Missy Elliott, Darkchild and Ron Fair, just to name a few. The album is a great mix of smooth R&B with a tinge of hip hop and really flexes Cole’s vocal muscles. Stand out tracks include the smash single, “Let It Go,” “Fallin’ Out,” “Got To Get My Heart Back,” “Shoulda Let You Go,” and the Bryan-Michael Cox-produced “Was It Worth It.” I’m really feeling Keyshia this time around. She came back solid.

THE DOWN SIDE: Keyshia used the video-edit version of “Let It Go” on the album, meaning it’s shorter and they skimmed down Lil’ Kim’s rap, which I hate. Also, she snuck her and Diddy’s duet, “Last Night” on the album. She could have at least given me a version with an extra verse with just her or something.

Hit Keyshia up on MySpace and let her know that you’re feeling her swag this time around. Also, take a look at her official site, keyshiacole.com for more information about releases, videos and tours. And make sure you get your copy of Just Like You on Tuesday, September 25.