Back in 2012 this jazz musician made more than her fair share of enemies when she won the Best New Artist award at the Grammys right out from under teenage girl favourite Justin Bieber. Instead of crumbling under that pressure (and I am sure a couple of death threats from Beliebers) her career has continued to be one that impresses. Her second release was a rather avant-garde and unexpected collection of neo-soul music. Now Emily’s D+ Evolution takes that ambition up another notch. Reminding all who listen to it that change is a good thing. While it all is still the very essence of artistic music there is plenty of variety and different influences to sink your ears into. Showing herself an artist who is not afraid of exploration or delving into different musical genres. First off the lyrics are almost like they were created in a dreamlike state as they are rather disjointed yet still tell a tale. Some of the lyrics are so surreal that they will bring to mind shapes and colours rather than emotions. Though there are plenty of emotions here as well. As far as the music goes she shows an uncanny ear and talent en masse when it comes to creating timeless melodies. Some of the more delicate arrangements can only be described as exquisite. Impressive upon first listen then your appreciation of it will only grow with each subsequent listen.
Esperanza Spalding – Emily’s D+ Evolution
