In My Element

With In My Element, Robert Glasper sharpened his voice as one of modern jazz’s most intuitive shape-shifters. Recorded in Brooklyn in late 2006 and released on 20 March 2007, the pianist’s third studio album builds on his lyrical phrasing and harmonic finesse, while beginning to sketch out the genre-blurring instincts that would define his later work.

Anchored by Vicente Archer on bass and Damion Reid on drums, Glasper moves with ease between elegance and experimentation. Opener G&B sprawls with soulful swing, while F.T.B. offers something more meditative, gliding through subtle shifts in mood. Elsewhere, Y’outta Praise Him bridges gospel traditions with modal phrasing, presented in two parts with an introspective spoken intro.

The tracklist isn’t afraid of homage. His take on Sam Rivers’ Beatrice is supple and reverent, while the Maiden Voyage/Everything in Its Right Place medley sees Herbie Hancock and Radiohead collide in fluid, imaginative fashion. Perhaps most telling is J Dillalude, a playful tribute to producer J Dilla that reimagines his rhythms through Glasper’s keys, blending beat culture and jazz with genuine affection.

Closing with Tribute, a spoken word piece by Reverend Joe Ratliff, the album underlines its emotional core. Glasper’s technical skill is never in question, but it’s his warmth and sincerity that set him apart. In My Element is exactly that — a snapshot of an artist stepping confidently into his sound.