An image is a terrible thing to waste, so George Michael re-invented his.

The result is featured on his latest record, Listen Without Prejudice Volume One.

In record stores Monday, the new album reveals a kinder, more sensitive Listen Without Prejudice person, who has abandoned his strutting, strumming Faith face.

Confirming the alteration is the fall release of Michael's book, Bare. In it, he admits that his previous arrogant on-stage persona was an act.

But of course.

But there's more.

A supposedly classy soon-to-be-telecast Michael TV special will make the adjustment official with grown-ups.

And his artistic decision to forego the usual video for his first single, Praying For Time, gives the pensive portrayal credibility among his popster people.

Whether he can match the success of the Grammy winning Faith - which boasted five No. 1 singles - is another story.

But chances are that Listen Without Prejudice will have a happy ending.

Written and produced by Michael, the 10 songs are solid, chart-worthy concoctions.

Michael even has some fun by incorporating classic rock 'n' roll references, occasionally.

Waiting For That Day uses The Rolling Stones' earthy organ and the You-Can't-Always-Get-What-You-Want chorus.

Praying For Time borrows John Lennon's dreamy musical backgrounds, while Heal The Pain hints at Paul McCartney's cutesy crooning.

A cover of Stevie Wonder's They Won't Go When I Go is a modest gospel success.

The rest is a variation on breezy jazz and good-time pop.

Only the lyrics have a serious redemptive tone.

Remarkable.

And there's still more.

There's Volume II, which is scheduled for release next year.

And that's remarkably ambitious.