Rating:
Genre:
R&B
Release Date: 10/28/2008
Evolver is more clever and appealing as an album title than
Dabbler, yet the latter would be much more emblematic of
John Legend's third studio album.
Legend is up-front about his lane changes, which begin with the album's lead single,
"Green Light," decked out in giddy synthesizers à la
Paul McCartney's
"A Wonderful Christmas Time" (or, OK, the glitziest part of
Kanye West's
"Flashing Lights") while benefiting from
André 3000's off-the-cuff appearance. Following it is
"It's Over," a relatively characteristic breakup song continues to set the tone for the album's anything-goes nature. There's a show-stopping ballad, a reggae-flavored
Estelle feature, flashes of tropical lushness, a couple throwbacks to soul-informed soft rock, a track full of chunky synth riffs, a brave topical message song to close, and a couple other diversions throughout.
Legend often sounds like he is occupied by the satisfaction that comes with hearing what his vocal cords are capable of achieving.
~Andy Kellman, All Music Guide
;)
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