Fresh off a guest stint on the indomitable “American Idol,” Neil Diamond, hoping to parlay his patronage, released a new album, Home Before Dark. Unfortunately for Diamond, it’s hard to imagine the fans of Carrie Underwood and David Archuleta translating into fans of the new CD.

Armed with the ability to produce infectious pop singles like “Cherry, Cherry” and “I’m a Believer,” Diamond has also veered into cringe-worthy territory in the past with songs like “You Don’t Bring Me Flowers.” More recently pairing up with wunderkind producer Rick Rubin (so successful with Johnny Cash) on the elegant and stripped down 12 Songs, Diamond again pairs with Rubin on Home Before Dark.

Less successful and with more instrumentation, Home Before Dark offers some nice moments but too much sentiment.

Grade: B-

Home Before Dark is currently available.