Black Radio 2
Robert Glasper · 2013
59 min · 12 tracks · jazz
A seamless blend of jazz, R&B, and hip-hop layered with soulful improvisation and thought-provoking lyrics.
Top tracks — play these first
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Trust — This track features a compelling dialogue between vocals and piano, showcasing Glasper's ability to blend emotional depth with intricate melodies, making it a standout moment on the album.
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Jesus Children — A reimagining of Stevie Wonder's classic, this rendition highlights Glasper's unique approach to reinterpretation while celebrating the original's spiritual essence through contemporary arrangements.
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Let It Ride — This track exemplifies the album's jazzy roots mixed with hip-hop elements, featuring a vibrant groove that invites listeners to engage with its infectious rhythm and lyrical flow.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album blends genres effectively while maintaining a cohesive flow, showcasing strong musicianship and composition.
What we noticed
- The use of varied instrumentation, including piano, bass, and electronic elements, contributes to a rich sonic palette.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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8/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- soulful improvisation with emotional depth
- reflective moments of personal growth
- smooth transitions between tracks
- intimate late-night listening sessions
- thought-provoking lyrics and themes
Maybe skip if you
- prefer upbeat party music
- want fast-paced, instant gratification
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in 2013, Black Radio 2 is Robert Glasper's follow-up to the Grammy Award-winning Black Radio (2012). At this point in his career, Glasper was transitioning from a respected jazz pianist to a prominent figure in contemporary music, bridging genres and expanding his influence across various styles.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Kamasi Washington· Esperanza Spalding· Hiatus Kaiyote
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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I Stand Alone
The verse shifts to a more introspective tone, addressing themes of solitude and resilience amid life's challenges.
This transition deepens the emotional weight of the song, moving from general observations to personal reflection, thus enhancing listener engagement.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Baby Tonight (Black Radio 2 Theme) / Mic Check 2 4:23
- 2 I Stand Alone 4:53
- 3 What Are We Doing 3:34
- 4 Calls 5:42
- 5 Worries 3:37
- 6 Trust 7:30
- 7 Yet to Find 4:40
- 8 You Own Me 4:25
- 9 Let It Ride 7:07
- 10 Persevere 4:35
- 11 Somebody Else 3:43
- 12 Jesus Children 5:28
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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