CD: "FACE THE PROMISE" BY BOB SEGER; CAPITOL RECORDS

RELEASED: SEPT. 12

STYLE: ROCK

My take: It's been more than a decade since Bob Seger recorded an album of new material. Ever since 1995's "It's A Mystery," his only record to sell below platinum status since 1976's "Live Bullet," the Detroit native has kept a relatively low profile. But he wasn't silent. He contributed film soundtracks, released a second greatest-hits album and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2004. It was around this time that rumors started to circulate about an album in the works. The release of "Face the Promise" puts the gossip to rest.

What Seger has lost in energy (which is understandable, considering he's 61), he makes up for with sharp songwriting, backed up by experience and wisdom as he approaches his golden years. The results: not only one of his personal best records but one of the best CDs of the year.

Much like Bruce Springsteen, Seger represents the middle-class working man who wants the simple things in life. It's as true in 2006 as it was in the '70s. The only difference is the teens and twentysomethings back then are now middle-aged. Seger adapts to this with changes instead of targeting a demographic that may be too young to remember hearing "Like A Rock" on Chevrolet commercials.

The first single, "Wreck This Heart," is classic Seger. He perfected the craft of writing honest lyrics that never wander into sappy territory years ago, and he's still got it. "Wait for Me" is also signature Seger. Its tale of coping with aging isn't completely subtle, but it is honest. The title track is more of a throwback to his old-time songs of youth and exploration on the road but comes off more as middle-aged wistfulness than youthful daydreaming.

Seger brings in two guest singers with mixed results. "The Answer's in the Question," a duet with Patty Loveless, works on several levels: she's always great to hear, she adds a country flavor to the album, and their voices work well together. On the other hand, Seger's duet with Kid Rock, a cover of Vince Gill's "Real Mean Bottle," doesn't work as well. Their delivery styles differ too much to gel.

Overall, "Face the Promise" is everything you want in a Bob Seger album. There's nothing here to make you forget or even rival classics such as "Against the Wind" or "Roll Me Away," but it's still above and beyond many records of the year. If this is to be Seger's last album, it would be a great way to go, especially with the album art showing him riding his motorcycle with his gray hair flowing and eyes glued on the horizon.

Jeremy Castillo, who recently received his associate of arts degree from Windward Community College, is attending the University of Idaho.

THE VERDICT: 4

THE RATINGS
5 — Outstanding: Add it to your collection now. A must-have.
4 — Great: Buy it or rent it — definitely listen to it.
3 — Good: Worth listening to despite some flaws.
2 — Fair: Unless you're a fan of the group or singer, don't bother.
1 — Poor: Save your money (and your ears).