John Legend - Evolver?
 

Anybody pick up this album? If so, how is it?

I have 'Get Lifted' and 'Once Again'. Would rate them 5/5 and 3.5/5 respectively.

I have not heard any tracks off of 'Evolver' except for "Green Light"- and I don't particularly like that song. Was curious how the rest of the stuff is. Maybe somebody could break it down for me and share their thoughts.

How strong is it in comparison to his other albums?

I love 'Once Again'. I didn't even realize he was coming out with a new album. I'll have to check it out!

Yeah, wifey, actually came out in late 2008. I haven't really looked into it until now either.

Oh, and get 'Get Lifted'- it's his best stuff IMO

Don't get me wrong...both Get Lifted and Once Again are quality albums. I guess I prefer Once Again because it seemed a little more varied, and songs like Save Room and P.D.A. had a little funk edge to them that really get me.

Caved in and bought it. Initial listen it's pretty good. Not an instant classic or anything, but roughly on par with 'Once Again' in my opinion. Lot's of production... I miss the prominent piano tracks (most notable on this album is "This Time"). Have to give it a few more spins to get the full gist of it, but so far it's worth the $.

I was so looking forward to hearing this because I love John Legend. I want to love this album so much, but I just can't. :( It's terribly over-produced and lacks the rawness of his first album "Get Lifted". There was not enough piano and too much electronic whatever...I also didn't care for all the collaborations he did on this album. Especially the one with Andre 3000...it was terrible. Basically this album mostly sounds like it's trying to fit in with the rest of the poppy R&B on the radio. I thought it lacked soul and that's what I've always liked most about John Legend's music.

That's not to say that it is a total loss. "I Love, You Love" really got to me, I listened to it repeatedly and fell in love with it. "If You're Out There" was decent, and so was "Quickly".

And pourmeanother...I have to disagree with you in saying that this is on par with 'Once Again'. 'Once Again' was a more diverse album...I personally think of it as his best. 'Evolver'...not so much. :( But as I said, it has it's gems.

Edit: "Can't Be My Lover"...another good track!

Eh, I would tend to agree with you more now that the newness has worn off. Definitely going to have to agree that Once Again trumps this as well. Favorites are "Everybody Knows", "This Time", and "I Love, You Love". I liked the Estelle track best in terms of the collaborations. Then there are songs, where I like the concept- but the package is lackluster (ie: "Cross The Line"- lyrics I can totally relate to, but just an average track that is sometimes difficult to finish). I'm not disappointed I bought the album and added it with the others, but I can safely say it's just not on par. Unfortunately :(.