Editor’s Note: The Albumism staff has selected what we believe to be the 110 Best Albums of the 2010s, representing a varied cross-section of artists, genres, and styles. Click “Next Album” below to explore each album in the list or for easier navigation, view the full introduction & album index here.
RAPHAEL SAADIQ | Stone Rollin’
Columbia (2011)
Selected by Justin Chadwick
Following his memorable run as the central voice of the Oakland-bred trio Tony! Toni! Toné! and the ephemeral yet engaging side project Lucy Pearl, Raphael Saadiq formally launched his solo career with the unveiling of his dazzling debut album Instant Vintage in June of 2002. Four brilliant long players have followed in the form of the critically applauded Ray Ray (2004), The Way I See It (2008), Stone Rollin’ (2011), and 2019 album-of-the-year contender Jimmy Lee, all of which have solidified Saadiq’s status as one of the most dynamic musical visionaries working today.
If push comes to shove for me, however, it’s Stone Rollin’ that stands as the cream of the crop in his recorded repertoire to date, with Saadiq seamlessly (and sublimely) crafting an irresistible set of songs that summons the rich traditions of R&B (“Movin’ Down the Line”), rock (“Over You”) and the blues (“Stone Rollin’”), while still sounding remarkably fresh and modern.
LISTEN & WATCH:
