D'Angelo - Voodoo (2LP) - White Vinyl

Five years after the release of his critically acclaimed debut, "Brown Sugar," D'Angelo returned with an album that would further cement his status as a musical visionary: "Voodoo." Released in 2000, "Voodoo" is a deep dive into the nexus of soul, funk, and R&B, blending raw musicality with ethereal production to create a sonic tapestry that's both timeless and forward-thinking..

From the opening notes of "Playa Playa," there's a clear departure from the polished neo-soul of "Brown Sugar." "Voodoo" is grittier, more organic, drawing inspiration from the funk of the '70s while pushing the boundaries of contemporary R&B. This is evident in tracks like "Devil's Pie," with its biting lyrics and aggressive instrumentation, reflecting D'Angelo's exploration of themes like materialism and societal decay..

The album's centerpiece, "Untitled (How Does It Feel)," is a masterclass in minimalism and restraint. The sparse instrumentation allows D'Angelo's voice to shine, moving from sultry whispers to impassioned belts. The track is not just a showcase for his vocal prowess but also his ability to convey raw emotion, capturing the essence of longing and sensuality..

D'Angelo's collaboration with a plethora of talented musicians adds layers of depth to "Voodoo." The legendary drummer Questlove's intricate rhythms form the backbone of tracks like "One Mo'Gin" and "The Root," while Pino Palladino's bass lines add a richness and groove that's palpable throughout the album..

Lyrically, "Voodoo" is an exploration of love, spirituality, and identity. Songs like "Send It On" and "Feel Like Makin' Love" delve into the complexities of relationships, while "The Line" and "Africa" offer introspective takes on personal journeys and roots..

A standout feature of "Voodoo" is its cohesiveness. Despite its eclectic influences, ranging from Prince to Parliament-Funkadelic, the album feels like a singular, unified vision. This is in part due to D'Angelo's meticulous approach to recording, opting for live takes and prioritizing the organic feel of the music..

The influence of "Voodoo" on subsequent R&B and soul artists cannot be overstated. Its blend of authenticity, innovation, and musicianship set a new standard for the genre, inspiring a generation of artists to embrace rawness and authenticity in their craft..

In conclusion, "Voodoo" is not just an album; it's a musical journey. D'Angelo, with his undeniable talent and vision, crafts a work that transcends trends and eras. It stands as a testament to the power of music to evoke emotion, tell stories, and push boundaries. "Voodoo" remains an essential listen for any aficionado of soul, funk, and R&B, a mesmerizing blend of past, present, and future..

Why did "Voodoo" mark a significant departure from D'Angelo's previous work, "Brown Sugar?".

While "Brown Sugar" is rooted in a neo-soul aesthetic with clear influences from R&B and jazz, "Voodoo" is a denser, funkier, and more sonically experimental project. "Voodoo" drew inspiration from the rawness of old soul and funk records, resulting in a more organic sound, characterized by live instrumentation and intricate rhythms. The tracks often privilege vibe and atmosphere over traditional song structures, giving the album a more immersive feel..

What was the inspiration behind the album's title and overall sound?.

The title "Voodoo" encapsulates the album's spiritual, primal, and mystical aura. D'Angelo intended to tap into the raw spirit and energy of ancestral rhythms and sounds. The title, along with the music, draws parallels to the African diasporic religion of Voodoo, emphasizing connections to ancestry, spirituality, and deeply rooted cultural sounds. The recording sessions often felt like jam sessions, evoking a sense of community and spirituality, thus reflecting the album's title..

How did D'Angelo's collaboration with other artists shape the sound of "Voodoo?".

"Voodoo" was shaped by a collaborative effort, especially with the Soulquarians collective, which included artists like Questlove, Q-Tip, James Poyser, and J Dilla, among others. Questlove's drumming, in particular, became a central element of the album's unique rhythmic feel. These collaborations brought diverse influences, from hip-hop to jazz to funk, culminating in the rich tapestry of sounds on "Voodoo.".

Why is the song "Untitled (How Does It Feel)" particularly notable in D'Angelo's career?.

"Untitled (How Does It Feel)" is perhaps the most iconic track on "Voodoo." Musically, it’s a nod to the slow-burning sensuality of artists like Prince. The song is also renowned for its music video, which features a shirtless D'Angelo singing directly to the camera. The video became a sensation due to its intimate nature and D'Angelo's physical appearance, cementing his status as a sex symbol. While it boosted the album's visibility, it also led to personal challenges for D'Angelo, who felt pigeonholed by the image the video projected..

How did the recording process of "Voodoo" at Electric Lady Studios influence the album's outcome?.

"Voodoo" was primarily recorded at the historic Electric Lady Studios, which has seen legends like Jimi Hendrix. The studio's legacy and aura undoubtedly influenced the album's spirit. D'Angelo and his collaborators often indulged in prolonged jam sessions, leading to spontaneous moments of creativity. The environment at Electric Lady allowed for a free flow of ideas, with artists dropping by for impromptu collaborations, resulting in an album that felt organic, communal, and timeless.