A dozen tranquil and somber melodies comprise the emotive set on “White Limousine,” Duncan Sheik’s long-awaited new album (in stores Tuesday), and some tracks are sure to make Midori’s “Big Sonic Chill” radio program.

The Garden State native trained his voice, no doubt, which makes for an effortless communication of solemn words. Sheik’s departure from the pop realm since 1996 has garnered him much support from his loyal fan base. And though he’s slightly reinvented himself, his stylistic nuances of dreary lyrics are still there – Hey Casanova, you don’t look too good / But I know times are tough.

– MICHAEL KUHLMANN

This reviews originally appeared in The San Diego Union-Tribune.