Stone Rollin’, the fourth studio album from Raphael Saadiq, continues where his 2008 effort, The Way I See It, left off in that it’s a deeper exploration of his musical influences. While his previous effort focused on the heyday of Motown, Stone Rollin’ is more of an eclectic mix of sounds – rock n’ roll, R&B, soul & pop – that have all helped to define an era. Saadiq’s latest fare takes great risk in continuing along a similar musical path, but after the first listen, there’s no denying the quality and level of musicianship that he brings to this album.

“Heart Attack”, the very first track, is a wonderful homage to Sly & the Family Stone’s “Dance to the Music” with its funky guitar riffs, rhythmic vocal improvisation and the different layers of strings and percussion. “Radio” is a playful nod to rock pioneers like Chuck Berry with simple chord changes and catchy lyrics. But the shift from the more lighthearted sounds comes on the title track, “Stone Rollin’”, which is full of raw, sexual energy. Inspired by blues artists like Howlin’ Wolf, Saadiq takes total command, lyrically, as his vocals are much darker and grittier.

“Movin’ Down the Line” nicely straddles itself between contemporary sounds and the more nostalgic songs on this album. But the final track, “The Answer”, is definitely the standout on Stone Rollin’. It opens with militaristic-pumping drums which are softened by lyrics of imploring folks to serve as motivators for young people. But perhaps there’s a deeper message of how there’s an absence of musical mentors and teachers to inspire young listeners. Thought-provoking.

I initially had mixed feelings about Saadiq’s choice to record a new album of retro soul, but there’s definitely a revivalist trend happening (Sharon Jones & The Dap Kings, Joss Stone, Adele) and with the absence of depth and soul in today’s music, artists and listeners alike are forced to look to the past for their inspiration. And Saadiq’s Stone Rollin’ does just that.

Raphael Saadiq – Stone Rollin’ by Hypetrak

4 / 5 bars