Since the beginning of time, man has evolved – whether he wanted to or not. Evolution brings new ideas, new inventions, and a plethora of changes – most of which are for the better.
So it was no surprise to listen to John Legend’s Evolver and hear new sounds, new lyrics, and new ideas from what appearing to be an ever-evolving man.
The album opens as do most of his compositions, with a soothing melody. The politely soft horns and his raspy but sultry voice welcome the listener to his reinvented musical experience.
Whereas his first album was mixture of classic R&B and hip hop, and his second a return to classic soul (with a bit of pop sprinkled in the mix), Evolver is a cocktail of crossover-potential songs. Two parts dance/pop, one part soul/R&B and one part reggae, it gives the listener a unique buzz that satisfies the eclectic palette.
Featured among the mix are Legend’s musical partner-in-crime, Kanye West; one of his discoveries, British sensation Estelle; and Brandy, an R&B fave who’s been MIA.
Aside from the first single, and instant smash hit, “Green Light” (featuring Andre 3000), there are several tracks that should get any music-lover’s attention:
“No Other Love” is peppered with a Reggae influence and channels a Marley feel. With the addition of Estelle’s accented voice, it’s sure to be a favorite.
“If You’re Out There” sounds like something U2 would have recorded, but Legend does it great justice. The cut speaks to the masses with a message of empowerment and change.
More classic soulful tracks like “This Time”, “Good Morning” and “I Love, You Love” showcase the Legend we’ve all grown to love. Simple melodies and accompaniment, paired with strong vocals and lyrics.
This writer’s favorite would have to be “Cross the Line.” This track is splattered with hip hop, reggaeton and modern soul, giving you something to remember and keep on repeat.
The entire album is worth putting on repeat. As he tells stories of love sought, lost, and found, Legend takes chances that are well worth the risk. He has composed a musical happy hour (and a half) that anyone can enjoy.
Evolver tells two simultaneous tales ... the evolving of a man ... and the evolving of a musician – both trying out new things in the name of love.
So it was no surprise to listen to John Legend’s Evolver and hear new sounds, new lyrics, and new ideas from what appearing to be an ever-evolving man.
The album opens as do most of his compositions, with a soothing melody. The politely soft horns and his raspy but sultry voice welcome the listener to his reinvented musical experience.
Whereas his first album was mixture of classic R&B and hip hop, and his second a return to classic soul (with a bit of pop sprinkled in the mix), Evolver is a cocktail of crossover-potential songs. Two parts dance/pop, one part soul/R&B and one part reggae, it gives the listener a unique buzz that satisfies the eclectic palette.
Featured among the mix are Legend’s musical partner-in-crime, Kanye West; one of his discoveries, British sensation Estelle; and Brandy, an R&B fave who’s been MIA.
Aside from the first single, and instant smash hit, “Green Light” (featuring Andre 3000), there are several tracks that should get any music-lover’s attention:
“No Other Love” is peppered with a Reggae influence and channels a Marley feel. With the addition of Estelle’s accented voice, it’s sure to be a favorite.
“If You’re Out There” sounds like something U2 would have recorded, but Legend does it great justice. The cut speaks to the masses with a message of empowerment and change.
More classic soulful tracks like “This Time”, “Good Morning” and “I Love, You Love” showcase the Legend we’ve all grown to love. Simple melodies and accompaniment, paired with strong vocals and lyrics.
This writer’s favorite would have to be “Cross the Line.” This track is splattered with hip hop, reggaeton and modern soul, giving you something to remember and keep on repeat.
The entire album is worth putting on repeat. As he tells stories of love sought, lost, and found, Legend takes chances that are well worth the risk. He has composed a musical happy hour (and a half) that anyone can enjoy.
Evolver tells two simultaneous tales ... the evolving of a man ... and the evolving of a musician – both trying out new things in the name of love.
- mahogani (c) 2008
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