Log onto an India.Arie lyrics page and you won't come away expecting an easy-breezy listen--here's an artist, remember, who made a name for herself by declaring her disdain for silicone and Cristal on her 2001 debut. What's consistently a revelation for new recruits to the Arie camp, then, is how good the music makes you feel. No matter how heavy the subject matter (and it still gets heavy--God surfaces in the first verse of "Intro," the prayerful opening song), she delivers it in such a way that it ends up feeling like homespun wisdom--accessible, cloudless, and heartening. Testimony, no minor R&B/soul achievement, is full of such earth-mother moments: "The Heart of the Matter," a cover of the Don Henley song, is what a hug might sound like if it were music; "There's Hope" reminds tunefully that you don't have to pay to smile ("You better thank God for that"); "Private Party" points up the benefits of getting naked before a mirror and liking what you see (impossible as that sounds, it'll seem less so after listening); and "I Am Not My Hair," a sexy thumper featuring Akon, celebrates not the hair, not the skin, but "the soul that lives within." Musically, "Testament" is a testament to the benefits of branching out; in addition to gospel and hip-hop, you'll also find country and pure pop forays here. All of it works, and works wondrously. Arie may be the Oprah of the music world: she's spiritual, she's got her head screwed on straight, and whatever she touches turns to gold. Or at least it ought to. --Tammy La Gorce
Spotlight customer reviews:
Customer Rating: Summary: inspirational Comment: she hit another one out of the park. the lyrics are inspirational just like her first album and i enjoy it everytime i listen to it. Customer Rating: Summary: Beautiful, inspiring, soulful as always Comment: I love everything she's ever done and likely everything she'll ever do. So refreshing to hear such honest, positive messages....especially via her beautiful, soulful voice. My kids and I all adore her! Customer Rating: Summary: Inspirational! Comment: This is a highly personal CD that obviously took some time to write. The songs come from her heart and express the highs and lows of her personal growth. It is truly an inspirational CD to listen to! Customer Rating: Summary: happy music Comment: This is a truely beautiful album with music for everyone and messages that make you feel good.... what could be better Customer Rating: Summary: India Arie CD Comment: Excellent service - my CD was a rush order and it came right on time!