Ok, I am not gonna front, I haven’t always been a fan of India Arie. I mean she definitely has her own style and that song that talked about buying a piece of crystal instead of a pistol, was cool, but now I have to admit with her new album “Testimony: Vol 1. Life and Relationships”, I am not only a fan but I truly appreciate her music and I know you will too.

The 15 track album is filled with original music that Miss Arie penned herself. All but one song, my favorite “I Am Not My Hair” an ode to people that judge you by your appearance, rather then who you are inside, something we ALL can relate to. Although that song might bring you in, songs like “The Heart of the Matter” a song of loves past and the feelings that are associated with it. “Summer” a great song for the way you feel in the summer and “Better People” a gospel tinged fun song, about being a better person. ”I Choose” another gospel tinged song, but with a different vibe, about living for yourself is what makes this album special, along with “India’s Song” and “Wing’s of Forgiveness”

While I am reluctant to label albums as something, I would have to label this album as motivating, and in a why educational, because India is sharing her life and experiences, not in away of being educational, but you can learn a thing or two, and positivity can help everyone. Some nice touches that the album possess are, an intro, interlude and an outro, something that a lot of albums rarely have because they labels make artist put in filler songs. A very thought out album cover booklet is also a great touch, which includes not just some flashy pictures and who wrote the songs but a 2 page letter to the fans and Thank you’s that take up 3 pages, cause we all know we like to know who our favorite artists are friends with.

For the most part, the fact that India didn’t pen my favorite song on the album didn’t sway my perception of the album, but she did redeem herself by keeping Akon on the track, . It is very creative and well thought out, with great use of instruments like the piano and guitar, along with nice production. India has a fresh sound and although some my chalk her up to being earthy or bohemian, take with you the fact that just because someone looks a certain way doesn’t mean you can’t relate. And mark my words; she will win a Grammy for this album.