I don't know whether to be happy or sad. Mixed feelings are the words that best describe how India.Arie's new album 'Testimony Volume 2, Love & Politics' make you feel when you first listen to it. It all begins with her image. The woman on this album is a far cry from the conscious, carefree woman who once had a head full of locks and wore long, flowing skirts.

She first proclaimed her worth isn't determined by the price of her clothes in 'Video' and then she shaved her head and declared there's more to her other than them in 'I Am Not My Hair'.

And now, she's cavorting around in tight-fitting retro outfits ? think bold prints, leather outfits, neon coloured T-shirts, wet-look leggings and platform stiletto's. Could it be that she has identity issues?

If that's the case then it's definitely extended into her music. The signature guitar-chord-laden verses and distinct vocals with a hint of a gritty husk are still there although at first glance it seems India's making an effort to keep up with the commercial anthems of today with 'Therapy' featuring Gramps Morgan.

But a further listen to the song proves that it's easy for the vibrant strumming and fast-paced beats to fool you into thinking otherwise of what's described simply as a romantic, exuberant song.

The same applies to 'Ghetto' ? lyrically, she explores how she views the world as a ghetto for both rich and poor, black and white proving that her conscious train of thoughts is still there. It's an uplifting song which genuinely evokes the spirit of brotherhood and humanity unto others.

'Chocolate High', her duet with longtime friend Musiq Soulchild is, like its title, a real treat. It's a mid-tempo love ballad which flourishes at the harmony of India and Musiq's liquid chocolate vocals.

Despite the initial uncertainty, 'Testimony Volume 2, Love & Politics' will take you on a spiritual journey with music that soothes the soul and lyrics that motivate you to become a better person.

Just give it a careful listen and it'll surely grow on you.