Emily’s D+Evolution - Esperanza Spalding (2016)

Ideated from: a favorite album that starts with ‘E’

It’s just not fair how good some people are at music. Esperanza Spalding is a masterful bassist, and has a wonderful vocal range that can switch registers on a dime. There’s certainly a ton of natural talent, but she’s clearly honed her skills razor sharp in addition to being so gifted. She has a very crossover-minded approach to jazz, making music that isn’t just vocal jazz, but has pop and rock and R&B elements to it that stand with just about anyone.

This record is my personal favorite of hers, but you could make an argument for anything she’s released. There’s so much familiarity, but also so much unpredictability to these songs. It’s a really unique and wonderful record.

Tracks I Liked

Good Lava - Pure excitement. everything that’s great about Spalding

Unconditional Love - a wonderful ballad

One - soaring and epic