Los Angeles, California — André 3000’s latest project, a brief collection titled “7 Piano Sketches,” has quickly caught the attention of listeners, offering a stark contrast to his previous work. While his earlier album, “New Blue Sun,” was an expansive exploration, the new release’s concise 16-minute format works to its advantage, delivering a more focused experience.
On a first listen, the sketches may come off as mere improvisational exercises—a series of fleeting piano vignettes that seem to tease rather than engage fully. However, repeated listens unveil a treasure trove of nuanced details. The standout track, “off rhythm laughter,” elevates its one-take improvisational roots with innovative post-production choices, such as looping laughter and a subtle drone that gradually envelops the piano melodies. The effect is simple yet profoundly mesmerizing, transforming the listening experience into an ambient drift that holds the audience’s attention.
In contrast, the addition of a drum machine in the final piece, “i spend all day waiting for the night,” feels somewhat anticlimactic, introducing an unwelcome structure to what began as a free-spirited exploration. Even in the minimalistic pieces, André’s playing often feels purposeful. Surprisingly, his proficiency at the piano reflects greater confidence compared to the woodwinds showcased in “New Blue Sun.” In tracks like “and then one day you’ll…,” he deftly balances warm, blossoming chords with playful single-note melodies, suggesting a skeletal song structure that resonates with listeners.
Musical influences are subtly woven throughout the sketches. The charm of “hotel lobby pianos” harkens back to the style of jazz legend McCoy Tyner, capturing the essence of a classic jazz standard while maintaining André’s unique voice. Though he may not possess the technical mastery of musical giants such as Thelonious Monk or Joni Mitchell, his patient and inherently musical approach allows these sketches to resonate emotionally, offering glimpses of deeper artistic intent.
It’s easy to question whether he has the authority to present such informal sketches as polished works, especially given his high-profile status. Yet, André 3000’s ability to fuse unorthodox creativity with considerable commercial success sets him apart. His artistic choices, including the eye-catching piano-as-backpack concept he showcased at the Met Gala, signal an intent to challenge conventional norms in music.
“7 Piano Sketches” cannot be evaluated in isolation; it serves as a part of an ongoing exploration into a direction-less artistry—an inquiry into the possibilities that arise when one moves away from traditional career trajectories. Following the flute-centric experimentation of “New Blue Sun,” these piano sketches emerge as a natural progression. They reflect André’s growing confidence in sharing his personal recordings, which he has previously kept to himself or shared selectively with close friends and family.
Listeners may find themselves pondering why these pieces don’t feel more complete, or why André isn’t returning to the rap that established his fame. However, it might be more rewarding to appreciate this fresh direction and to embrace the invitation to join in on his artistic journey. Ultimately, “7 Piano Sketches” affirms André 3000’s place in contemporary music by inviting audiences to participate in a creative space where spontaneity and personal expression reign.