I’m so naive. I think I can write a fair review for any type of music they throw my way. Ray Jozwiak’s “Critic’s Choice” almost cleared away that delusion.

The first song, “Albert,” struck fear in my heart. I like to go with my first impressions of a song and let the artist build upon that. So what was I hearing? It sounded like an out-of-tune, jazz version of “A Charlie Brown Christmas.” I couldn’t erase the mental image of Snoopy dancing on top the piano.

No matter - I plugged on. These were the days I wouldn’t do a review unless I listened to the entire CD. The next two songs had me thinking this Ray Jozwiak was the love child of Linus and Mary Lou Retton. I could visualize the tumbling runs as Linus pounds out the goofy dance beats the athletes must writhe to …

It wasn’t until track four, “Money,” that I finally got it. Ray brought in some funky bass that changed the cold striking of the keys into smooth, honey-fingered piano jazz. The rest of the CD was an effortless listen.

Jozwiak is talented and needs to be heard. I didn’t find a Web site or e-mail address for “Critic’s Choice.” Go to your local music store and demand it.

P.S. Ray, if you have a way to access your work online, please drop me a line.