**1/2 Guy

III

(MCA)

This is the long-awaited sequel to Guy's 1990 sophomore effort, the ironically titled The Future. After a decade's absence, all this trio of old-jack swingers have to offer is a collection of well-crafted R&B songs. Let's not look a gift horse in the mouth, though -- it's an exceedingly pleasant listen with only one duff cut, the strained "Not a Day." There are fun quotes of PM Dawn and Prince, and "Love Online" makes shimmering make-out music out of AOL's Instant Message bells (just don't listen while you're signed on or it'll have you searching for nonexistent windows). But there's not much else to keep you coming back. Or maybe it's just that Teddy Riley's trademark subliminal seduction techniques work better with sprightlier tempos. His stint with Blackstreet has obviously convinced him that slow is the way to go. So how well you respond to III depends on how patient you are with letting his come-ons zap you.

-- Kevin John