Performer Notes

The third full-length from John Legend finds the neo-soul singer-songwriter mixing it up a bit. Whereas its predecessor, the excellent ONCE AGAIN, stayed the course of smooth yet passionate retro-themed R&B, EVOLVER experiments with different sounds and styles. The lead single, "Green Light," with its amped-up programmed beat, synths, and cameo from Andre 3000, sounds more like a 21st-century club jam than an old-school throwback. Reggae, ballads, adult contemporary, and digitized contemporary R&B all make their way into the album's diverse musical stew. Whether it's the mellow, low-key funk of "It's Over," the synth-pop of "Satisfaction" (one can imagine the song being performed by Depeche Mode), or the guest spots from Brandy, Estelle, and Kanye West, EVOLVER keeps the listener guessing. It may not have the consistency of Legend's first two releases, but its cornucopia of interesting sounds and directions offer something for everyone.

Professional Reviews

Rolling Stone (p.125) - 3.5 stars out of 5 -- "With piano-flecked soul, lite funk and reggae, EVOLVER's tunes and arrangements are as impeccable as the cut of Legend's suits."

Spin (p.106) - 3 stars out of 5 -- "EVOLVER proves that Legend remains one of R&B's most forward-looking craftsmen."

Entertainment Weekly (p.62) - "Legend is still at his best when he plays to his voice's strengths with clean-cut ballads like 'Everybody Knows.'" -- Grade: B+

Mojo (Publisher) (p.104) - 3 stars out of 5 -- "When he moves away from the more straightforward ballads, it's obvious that Legend's maverick side is still intact....He's reaching out to address more universal themes, and finding the music to match."