Evolver

On his third album, the consummate balladeer adds a whole mess of pop spice to his recipe for love. The result is a diverse set that reaches far beyond Legend’s trademark brand of elegant soul. “Green Light” is a duet with André 3000 featuring glimmering synths and crisp club beats, while “No Other Love” finds his smooth voice swaying to a reggae gait that’s as warm and intoxicating as a Caribbean lagoon. Legend turns political on “If You’re Out There,” a rousing call for love, peace, and unity replete with backing choir and searing fretwork.