The result is an “astoundingly versatile” sound that draws from jazz, hip-hop, and R&B, creating something that refuses to be pigeonholed into any one genre. Critics praised the album's consistency. While some noted it might have “fewer standout performances” than its predecessor, they argued it created a wholly cohesive and immersive listening experience.
: A cover of the Bill Withers classic, featuring a spoken intro from Bill Withers himself. Musical Direction and Personnel
: Holding a 71 on Metacritic, the album was lauded for its consistent, soulful vibe, despite some criticism regarding the reduced focus on instrumental improvisation.
The album's title, , refers to the underground radio stations that once thrived in the United States, particularly during the 1960s and 1970s. These stations, often run by African Americans, played a vital role in promoting black music and culture, offering an alternative to mainstream radio. Glasper's Black Radio 2 pays homage to this legacy, celebrating the rich musical heritage of black America while innovating and expanding its sonic possibilities. robert glasper experiment black radio 2 deluxe zip
The Robert Glasper Experiment's , released on October 29, 2013, via Blue Note Records , is the Grammy-winning follow-up to the original Black Radio . It features an expansive blend of jazz, R&B, and hip-hop, anchored by the Experiment band: Robert Glasper (keyboards), Derrick Hodge (bass), Mark Colenburg (drums), and Casey Benjamin (sax/vocoder). Key Features of the Deluxe Edition
More than a decade after its release, Black Radio 2 stands as a timeless testament to Black musical excellence. It challenged the rigid formatting of radio, proving that sophisticated musicianship could still produce commercial hits. Tracks like the Grammy-winning "Jesus Children of America" (featuring Lalah Hathaway and Malcolm-Jamal Warner) showed that the band could tackle deep, spiritual, and socially conscious themes with grace and profound musicality.
You can find the full album for streaming or purchase on platforms like Apple Music The result is an “astoundingly versatile” sound that
: The vocal bible herself shines on "What Are We Doing," a track layered with intricate vocal arrangements and complex chord progressions that delight jazz and R&B purists alike.
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The (available on Apple Music and Amazon Music) expands upon this with a richer, more nuanced collection of songs. It features the core band—Robert Glasper (keys), Derrick Hodge (bass), Casey Benjamin (vocoder/synth), and Mark Colenburg (drums)—collaborating with an eclectic mix of vocalists and musicians. Key Features of the Deluxe Edition: : A cover of the Bill Withers classic,
: A standout collaboration that highlights Brandy's legendary vocal layering and complex harmonies over Glasper’s elegant piano arrangements.
For dedicated fans, the deluxe edition is the definitive version of the album. It includes four bonus tracks that expand the album's sound:
Questions if it's still "jazz" but admits it's a "terrific modern R&B album".
