This sophomore album, five years after his groundbreaking debut Brown Sugar, signalled D'Angelo’s shift from a talented artist to a fully realized musical auteur. With Voodoo, he blended groove-driven production, raw soul, and personal vulnerability, crafting an album that has since been hailed as a modern classic.

Voodoo is, above all, an album rich in texture and tone. Influences from funk legends like Parliament-Funkadelic and Prince permeate its sound, but D’Angelo’s unique artistry ensures it’s far more than a tribute. The album opens with "Playa Playa," a track that introduces the album’s slow-burn groove and atmospheric instrumentation, setting the stage for what's to come. Each song on the album flows seamlessly into the next, creating a musical journey as much about mood and feel as it is about lyrical content.

Standout tracks like "Untitled (How Does It Feel)" show D'Angelo at his most vulnerable, baring his soul through every note and inflection. It's no surprise the track became synonymous with D’Angelo’s artistry, as it captures a raw, sensual energy that few R&B tracks before or since have managed. "Send It On" and "The Root" are other highlights, with layered arrangements and deeply personal lyrics that illustrate D'Angelo’s introspection and willingness to confront his own life experiences.

Working with notable musicians, including Questlove on drums, Pino Palladino on bass, and Roy Hargrove on trumpet, D'Angelo managed to create an album that feels both retro and refreshingly contemporary. This synergy between past and present adds to Voodoo’s timelessness, blending jazz improvisation with funk grooves and an unmistakable hip-hop attitude. The loose, jam-session feel is contrasted with meticulous production, allowing listeners to experience each song as an organic creation yet deeply crafted.

Voodoo’s legacy has only grown since its release. While not initially a mainstream smash, the album is now considered a cornerstone of modern soul and a profound influence on artists who followed. It’s the type of album that rewards repeated listens, each session revealing new layers and subtleties.

With 5 StarsVoodoo stands as a masterpiece in neo-soul and a defining work of D’Angelo’s career. It’s a bold, intimate exploration of sound and emotion, blending style and substance in a way that few albums have achieved.