India.Arie - Testimony: Vol. 1, Life & Relationship

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 Amazon.com

 She's just so great...
This is my 3rd India.Arie cd and she never ceases to amaze me. The first time I listen to her cd, I read along and sip something yummy. She deserves my full attention and with that, makes me feel I deserve the same. Treat yourself. May 10, 2008

 "I am not my hair"
I can't stand this song! Not only do I have a soul in me, but I AM my hair, I AM my skin. God made me this way and this IS who I AM. I AM NOT ashamed of that and I am disappointed that India Irie sang a song like this! We should be proud of who we are inside and out! Yes some if us can improve ourselves, but I think this song sends the WRONG message!! March 22, 2008

 Love India!
She's a great entertainer, with such a powerful soulful voice. Many favourite tracks on that album. I've also bought all her subsequent albums and am very happy with them!

Looking forward to the next ones, India! March 3, 2008

 CURE FOR THE COMMON BREAKUP
Indie never cease to amaze me with her play on words...Good Mourning was a true testimony from the heart ..that song should represent all those who have lost loves that they still love. In this album you can feel her joy and pain...It will definetly teach you how to live and love again. February 29, 2008

 The Truth!
India.Arie and her "Testimony" are the truth, ya'll. I've had this album in my collection for more than a year, and tonight's the first time I've listened from beginning to end. I've been wasting time. February 2, 2008

More reviews at Amazon.com ...