Slicker Than Your Average

Slicker Than Your Average is Craig David's second studio album, released in 2002 as the follow-up to his massively successful debut, Born to Do It. Recorded during a period of intense global fame, the album represents a deliberate shift toward a more 'super-slick' production style intended to solidify his standing in the American market. While it retains elements of the UK Garage sound that defined his early career, it leans more heavily into Contemporary R&B and Pop Rap influences. The album features high-profile collaborations, most notably with Sting on the hit single 'Rise & Fall', which remains one of the most recognizable tracks of the era. Lyrically, David explores themes of fame, romantic tension, and global unity, the latter inspired by his experiences in New York during the September 11 attacks. Despite a more commercial sheen, the album's technical vocal performance - characterized by rapid-fire delivery and intricate self-harmonies - remains a benchmark for 2000s British R&B.