Review Roundup: John Legend - 'Evolver'

John Legend’s third studio album Evolver is available now. Find out what the critics are saying…

Los Angeles Times: Evolver is still grown-man party music though, and it should go a long way toward preserving his urban-boho reputation while breaking free of any NPR&B stasis in his songwriting. 3 out of 4

Rolling Stone: Lots of R&B dudes promise opulent nights of ecstasy, but Legend is so classy that these fantasies seem like real journalism. 3.5 out of 5

USA Today: His new album has a relaxed, sunny vibe, but there are shades of melancholy and urgency. The latter quality is especially marked on the surging “If You’re Out There.” 3 out of 4

The New York Times: Most of his tracks are far more organic than those of his electronics-loving rival among R&B nice guys, Ne-Yo. Even when Mr. Legend uses programmed beats, he usually tops them with hand-played instruments like his own piano.

Rap-Up’s Favorite Tracks: “Green Light,” “It’s Over,” “Everybody Knows,” “Quickly”