Ascension cover

Released 30 years ago

Ascension

Maxwell · 1996

27 min · 6 tracks · soul

Soulful grooves intertwine with lush instrumentation and heartfelt vocals, creating an atmosphere of longing and introspection.

Top tracks — play these first

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    Ascension (No One's Gonna Love You, So Don't Ever Wonder) (The Tribute cut) — This track captures Maxwell's smooth falsetto over a dreamy arrangement, encapsulating the essence of longing that defines the album.
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    Lock You Up n' Love Fa Days — This song showcases Maxwell's ability to blend sensuality with lyrical depth, creating an infectious groove that stands out in the album's narrative.
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    Ascension (Uncut) — The uncut version extends the emotional intensity of the original track, allowing for a deeper exploration of its themes through extended instrumentation and vocal improvisation.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • intimate late-night listening experience
  • heartfelt vocals that resonate deeply
  • smooth melodies for relaxed moments
  • steady progression towards emotional climax

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer fast-paced, upbeat tracks
  • seek standalone songs over cohesion

Where this album fits

Career context
Released on July 30, 1996, 'Ascension' marked Maxwell's second studio album, following his acclaimed debut 'Urban Hang Suite' from 1996. At this point in his career, he was solidifying his position as a leading figure in the neo-soul movement, gaining significant attention for his unique approach to contemporary R&B.
Stylistic neighbors
Erykah Badu· Anthony Hamilton· John Legend

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Ascension (No One's Gonna Love You, So Don't Ever Wonder) (The Tribute cut) 4:17
  • 2 Ascension (No One's Gonna Love You, So Don't Ever Wonder) (Uncut) 5:19
  • 3 Ascension (No One's Gonna Love You, So Don't Ever Wonder) (Unsung) 3:38
  • 4 Ascension (Dub Ever Wonder) 3:27
  • 5 Ascension (Uncut) 5:50
  • 6 Lock You Up n' Love Fa Days 5:26

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata