It seems Esperanza Spalding's alter ego Emily is (temporarily) here to stay and we are certainly not complaining. Since our first introduction to the project concept last spring, Esperanza Spalding Presents: Emily's D+Evolution has toured stateside and overseas, giving full-length album debuts (live onstage, that is) along the way. Aside from a lone single (ironically titled "One") and an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, the only way to experience the 'Evolution' was live and in person. Until now. Ms. Spalding has dropped a troika of treats into our laps to start of the new year.
First and foremost, new music (yay!) by way of album opener "Good Lava." Rather than another audio teaser, Ms. Spalding opted to go for the full-on wow factor with bold, colorful visuals. "See this pretty girl? Watch this pretty girl flow" is the directive given and we are wont to oblige as she proceeds to shred the electric bass with psychedelic abandon. Director Ondrej Rudavsky brings the funky tune to life through kaleidoscopic animation and symbolic art embellished with touches of steampunk imagery. Between Esperanza's enchanting voice, the captivating instrumental arrangement and the hypnotic visuals, you'll quickly find yourself under her spell.
In addition to new music, she's also unveiled an official album release date (March 4th) complete with a full track listing and option for pre-order. Lastly, after the album drops, 'Evolution' will be hitting the road again stateside, so if you missed out before (or just want to see the magic unfold once again), be sure to check out the dates below to see when they'll be coming to a city near you. Scroll down to watch Esperenza flow then head over to iTunes to pre-order Emily's D+Evolution.
Esperanza Spalding Presents: Emily's D+Evolution Tour Dates:
4/9: Northampton, MA @ Calvin Theatre
4/10: Greenvale, NY @ Tilles Center for the Performing Arts
4/12: Boston, MA @ Shubert Theater
4/14: New York, NY @ Apollo Theater
4/16: Red Bank, NJ @ Count Basie Theatre
4/17: New Haven, CT @ College Street Music Hall
4/19: Washington, DC @ 9:30 Club
4/20: Durham, NC @ Carolina Theatre
4/22: Atlanta, GA @ Center Stage
4/23: Clearwater, FL @ Capitol Theatre
4/24: Miami, FL @ Knight Center
