Evolution

Thematically, Evolution is about the self-defining choices we are all faced with. Carpenter addresses a spectrum of human relationships, drug and alcohol addiction, and the question of how to become a happy and responsible human being. He somehow manages to avoid self-pity and morbidity while tackling this material and to keep our feet tapping throughout. Musically, Carpenter flirts with reggae and various types of rock. He plays a number of different acoustic and electric guitars-from resonators to instruments he has assembled himself-in various styles. Every song has a short instrumental section, but the approach is always holistic, and the songs are built around the lyrics rather than constructed as vehicles for showing off technical ability. This music is easy to listen to but holds up to close inspection and repeated playing.