The Evolution

Ciara’s breathless, sexy voice might make her one of pop music’s most understated divas, but her willingness to operate in the realm of hardcore hip-hop is testament also to her boldness as an artist. <i>The Evolution</i> opens with the aggressive, slightly-menacing crunk of “That’s Right,” as Lil Jon’s barked hook forms a perfect contrast to Ciara’s delicate soprano. For her sophomore effort, she's attracted the brightest minds of contemporary hip-hop production. It’s clear that her style and self-confidence bring out the best in her collaborators, and like a veteran runway model she elegantly displays each producer’s signature looks. The Neptunes provide the icy electro/R&B hybrids of “I Proceed” and “I’m Just Me,” while will.i.am offers the sprightly pop futurism of “Love You Better” and “Get In, Fit In.” Unsurprisingly, the best tracks come courtesy of Ciara’s hometown pals. Jazze Pha’s “Get Up” extends the dizzy dancefloor rhythms of <i>Goodies</i>, but Polow Da Don’s “Promise” is the album’s undeniable centerpiece: an elegant and slow-burning amalgam of rhythm and romantic tension that recalls Janet Jackson at her <i>Rhythm Nation</i> peak.