Released on: Columbia Records

Release Date: 28/08/08

It’s official – The Legend is back. After an amazing debut album, John Legend’s second release ‘Once Again’ didn’t even scratch the surface of the material on ‘Get Lifted.’ However with Evolver, the musician’s musician is officially back at the top of his game.

What I love about Legend’s two albums (sorry John, I have to put ‘Once Again’ to the side here) is that both times, upon my first listen of the album, I have begun with a very clear favourite track and then each time I hear the album again, my mind gradually begins to change until I can no longer tell which ones aren’t my favourite! Thus my mind constantly swings back and forth like a pendulum and unlike most present day albums, I can kick back and listen to the full journey of the CD and enjoy every single moment of it.

The standout track for me upon first play was the reggae infused ‘Can’t be my lover.’ The funky rhythm combined with Legend’s vocals meant I could not help but move my body whenever and wherever this track came on (which is slightly embarrassing when this includes the tube) and I could not get enough of it for weeks. With that being said, it did not take me long before several other tracks had me under John’s spell. The infectious ‘Everybody Knows’ is a beautifully understated track whereby Legend’s lyrics are mirrored by the depth of emotion his vocals convey. Then there is ‘Quickly,’ a great collaboration with the original 90’s R&B princess, Brandy. This track is exactly what the music scene has been missing for a while – those soulful tracks of the 90’s that weren’t pop infused but which went on to champion great artists like Aaliyah, Jodeci and Usher to name a few.

Then there is the extremely catchy up-tempo dance track ‘Green Light’ featuring Andre 3000, where John’s smooth vocal techniques manage to convey his desire to sexually ‘go right now’ in the most charming, gentlemanly fashion that would persuade any female to give him the Green Light!

Posted In Features, Dec 08 2008. Words - Lori