[11] On several compositions the album features the voice of Cornel West, a notable socialist philosopher, civil rights activist, critic, and teacher of both religion and African American studies at Princeton University.

Blanchard’s smooth-centred sound packs punch, pianist Fabian Almazan delivers pinpoint textures and bass and drums subtly complete the picture.

"[6] Thom Jurek of AllMusic commented "Choices is a musically expansive, challenging recording that engages its title's subject matter critically and liberally without beating the listener over the head with it.

In addition to his band, "Choices" features special guests: Lionel Loueke provides imaginative guitar parts, Dr. Cornel West delivers provocative spoken-word interludes, and vocalist Bilal sings on a pair of R&B beauties.

"[13] Robert Spellman of Sunday Express added "Blanchard, joined by his closest players, follows with plaintive, tumbling, free-flowing jams that cannot fail to engage the jazz listener".