Tom Jones, '24 Hours'

The songs may have changed, but in the Tom Jones universe, some things are constant: hip swiveling, proud displays of chest hair, and big booming vocals. Jones has always lustily attacked his songs, which is why "24 Hours" marks a departure for the 68-year-old knighted pop star. Instead of tearing and shredding every song with his usual bravado, Jones demonstrates that he can be a subtle fellow. He's no shrinking Thom Yorke, but the title track, about a death row inmate, is a quiet reflection on life. Overall, the inspiration behind the album is Jones as Amy Winehouse or Jamie Lidell. "I've been singing this song since before you were born," he boasts to all the Winehouse-come-latelys on the U2-penned "Sugar Daddy." Given that he is the grandpapi of sweaty Brit R&B, it is a natural fit for Sir Tom to show these young'uns something about soul. Sadly, he's not working with producer Mark Ronson, but tracks such as the honeyed "If He Should Ever Leave You" are sufficiently Ronson-esque. He smartly revisits songs from Bruce Springsteen ("The Hitter") and, for those who miss the raw, hungry Jones, he delivers a roaring rendition of Tommy James & the Shondell's "I'm Alive." (Out tomorrow)

ESSENTIAL: "If He Should Ever Leave You"