Tank is a breath of R&B fresh air. The musical veteran returns to the feel good music previous generations tell young whippersnappers about. With his daughters and ex-wife there for support, the vocal powerhouse hosted a listening party in New York last night (May 6) for a glimpse of what his new album will feel like.

“This is the first time I’ve written an album while being completely happy,” he said to the crowd. “On my journey and quest to this project I struggled with being creative and commercially acceptable. We’re returning to the old [Michael Jackson] way of doing things.”

The “You’re My Star” crooner played five tracks off his upcoming album Stronger set to drop later this summer. It is apparent that in the glimpse of his project Tank took time to craft the right instrumental arrangements taking inspiration from greats like MJ and Marvin Gaye. Live horns and jam sessions are felt throughout each track.

Unlike his previous material, you won’t find any raunchy lyrics that force you to listen to his album in one room while your kids remain in theirs.

“Why are we always going for the songs that degrade women? I rather not contribute to that any further,” he said after playing the rough cuts. “We’re going to take this R&B thing and up the ante on it – make it classy and a little more expensive.”

Before the Milwuakee native wrapped up, upon the crowd’s request he sang a medley of hits including “Please Don’t Go” and a special song he dedicated to his ex-wife “Maybe I Deserve.” Lookout for Tank’s Stronger coming in the warmer months.