It’s easy to poke fun at Elton John, whose name has become synonymous with the modern-day power ballad.

Composing songs for Disney soundtracks and starting petty feuds with Madonna don’t exactly lead to rock credibility.

On this album – his first full-length since 2001’s acclaimed “Songs From The West Coast” – John’s voice is rich and his melodies pleasant. It’s nothing you haven’t already heard, but that doesn’t make it worthless.

John’s at his best when his vocals and keyboarding take center stage, such as on the gently pulsating “Too Many Tears,“ but he falters when presenting upbeat ditties such as the twangy, funk-country “They Call Her the Cat.”

The passionate and depressing “My Elusive Drug” showcases John’s skill with darker tunes.

John succeeds with pop songcraft and he knows it. However, he needs to find something new to say. After so many years and albums, he has to find a reason to put out another release.

If just the name “Elton John” puts you in a coma, this album is definitely not for you. But sometimes, fruit still tastes good, even the hundredth time around.