On the opening track of Unlearning Vol. 2, his fifth solo album, Evidence signals a shift. “Set the autopilot, cruising speed,” he raps—an image of ease that he quickly upends. The song, fittingly titled “Plans Change,” sets the tone for an album that favors reinvention over routine.Since his days with Dilated Peoples, Evidence has embodied cool precision. But like its 2021 predecessor, Unlearning Vol. 2 pushes back against the comfort of legacy. It’s not just a stylistic evolution—it’s a deeper, more instinctive exploration. Instead of leaning on familiar patterns, Evidence delves into raw emotion and personal growth, creating a sound that’s both grounded and experimental.The production—Sebb Bash’s “Seeing Double,” C-Lance’s “Top Seeded,” Evidence’s own “Greatest Motivation”—creates a smoky, immersive atmosphere. His voice cuts through with lyrical complexity and lived-in weight, especially on standouts like “Nothing’s Perfect” and “Laughing Last.” Featuring a multi-generational cast of collaborators including The Alchemist, DJ Babu, Blu, Larry June, Conductor Williams, and more, the album is united by a clear mission: to keep growing, keep challenging, and keep turning pain into purpose through sharp, intentional creativity.
