"Q Parker: The MANual," available in stores and online outlets today, is the debut album by Quinnes "Q" Parker, formerly of the Grammy Award-winning R&B group, 112.

In "Show You How," the first single from the 15-track disc, Parker proves himself to be a capable soloist, and further strengthens his case with "Yes," his second single, which makes use of a clever and campy falsetto that hearkens back to the 60s. He commits himself fully to every song, particularly "Two of Us," featuring Faith Evans.

112 disbanded in 2007, but for some reason, Parker includes an acoustic rendition of "Cupid," the group's biggest hit. While he gives a nice performance, it sounds so much like the original that I just don't see the point. "Just Us" is an Chris Brown-esque techno dance tune.

"The album serves as a 'manual,' a how-to guide for women to learn how they should be treated and for men to know how to treat them," saidParker. "It will give an inside scoop on how women should be approached, talked to and respected. The album will show how intimacy and chivalry aren't dead. There are still some gentlemen out there."

Overall, Q Parker's intriguing vocals and masculine appeal are the components of a promising solo career, and while I always prefer live musicians to the computerized and synthesized tracks that are utilized here, I realize that a skilled drummer sitting behind a kit along with a living, breathing rhythm section are all but extinct. So all things considered, "The MANual" is a strong first effort.

Prime cuts:

"Show You How"

"Belongs to You"

"Yes"

Contact Entertainment Reporter Kimberly C. Roberts at (215) 893-5753 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .