Bobby McFerrin doesn't get much respect. Even before his lighthearted hit "Don't Worry, Be Happy" took an unexpected leap to Number One in 1988, critics needled him for the self-absorption of his vocal style. McFerrin's last three albums have consistently tested the limits of a cappella singing, and Medicine Music is no exception. What reeks of shtick to some is bold and uncompromising to others, but Medicine Music is likely to appeal only to those who have already been won over by McFerrin.

Following the success of Simple Pleasures, in 1988, McFerrin assembled Voicestra, a nine-member vocal unit that accompanies him on two tracks on this album. Keyboardist Lyle Mays, drummers Peter and Juan Escovedo and McFerrin's father, Robert senior (formerly a baritone with New York's Metropolitan Opera), also make brief appearances. For the most part, however, McFerrin is on his own, intricately layering his elastic voice so that it accounts for every vocal part. This works particularly well on wordless efforts like "He Ran All the Way" and "The Train."

Stung by the fallout from "Don't Worry," McFerrin is more careful this time. "Medicine Man," the record's catchiest tune, is closer to the ebullient "I'm My Own Walkman" (1984) than the smash that introduced McFerrin to a pop audience. (It would be hard to imagine George Bush smearing on war paint and adopting this African chant as his presidential theme.) Medicine Music may not bring Bobby McFerrin more respect, but it does effectively wipe his slate clean. And perhaps nonfans will eventually find a soft spot for McFerrin's simple pleasures after all. (RS 597)

STEVE BLOOM