What makes Emily's D+Evolution by Esperanza Spalding notable?

Emily's D+Evolution received critical acclaim, appearing on numerous year-end lists and solidifying Spalding's reputation as an innovative artist within the jazz genre. It debuted at number one on the Billboard Contemporary Jazz Albums chart and was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Jazz Vocal Album, highlighting its impact within both the jazz and broader music communities. Released on March 4, 2016, Emily's D+Evolution marks Esperanza Spalding's fourth studio album and represents a pivotal moment in her career following her Grammy win for Best New Artist in 2011. This album reflects her artistic evolution, showcasing a more experimental approach with themes of identity and self-exploration.

Who is Emily's D+Evolution for?

Emily's D+Evolution works well if you're into wave-like pacing with dynamic shifts, heartfelt themes of love and and explorative listening for curious minds.

How many songs are on Emily's D+Evolution?

Emily's D+Evolution has 15 tracks, running approximately 62 minutes.

Released 10 years ago

Emily's D+Evolution

Esperanza Spalding · 2016

62 min · 15 tracks · funk

A vibrant fusion of jazz, funk, and soul that showcases Esperanza Spalding's innovative artistry and lyrical depth.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Good Lava — The opening track sets the tone for the album with its infectious groove and intricate arrangement, immediately showcasing Spalding's unique blend of styles.
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Ebony and Ivy — This track delves into complex themes of race and history through a compelling narrative, making it a standout example of Spalding's lyrical prowess.
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Funk the Fear — With its upbeat tempo and empowering message, this song exemplifies the album's overarching theme of embracing one's true self despite societal pressures.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

71 /100

Alpine

Higher than 95% of albums we've rated

The album showcases innovative compositions and distinct arrangements, making it a notable entry in contemporary jazz.

What we noticed

The album opens with a high-energy track that features complex rhythms and layered instrumentation, setting a vibrant tone.
Several tracks incorporate spoken word elements alongside traditional singing, creating a dynamic interplay between different vocal styles.
The arrangement of the songs often shifts unexpectedly, with abrupt changes in tempo and mood that challenge conventional song structures.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 8/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 6/10

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

wave-like pacing with dynamic shifts
heartfelt themes of love and
explorative listening for curious minds
engaging tracks for reflective moments

Maybe skip if you

prefer straightforward song structures
seek instant gratification in music

Where this album fits

Career context: Released on March 4, 2016, Emily's D+Evolution marks Esperanza Spalding's fourth studio album and represents a pivotal moment in her career following her Grammy win for Best New Artist in 2011. This album reflects her artistic evolution, showcasing a more experimental approach with themes of identity and self-exploration.
Stylistic neighbors: Robert Glasper· Hiatus Kaiyote· Snarky Puppy