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Although more upbeat than its predecessor, Vol. 2 requires some time spent listening. Those who do so will be richly rewarded.
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Testimony: Vol. 2, Love & Politics is proof that not only can Arie step out of her comfort zone of relationships and self-appreciation, but she can jog up a few levels as well.
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A good half of Love & Politics begins to wilt upon closer examination as Arie's blissed-out self-help affirmations posing as lyrics start to penetrate....But whether she's singing clunky therapy metaphors or spinning out more elegant turns of phrase, Arie's raspy voice is always in top form.
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There’s a limit to how many self-help platitudes a song can bear, and it’s certainly exceeded in 'A Beautiful Day,' with lines like, “There’s only one you/Just take a moment to give thanks for who you are.” But with a brisk, pulsating track and boundless anticipation in her voice, India.Arie comes close to making the truisms ring true.
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The tone of the relationship songs is more upbeat, and even occasionally lighthearted, relative to those of "Testimony: Vol. 1," adding a pleasant contrast to the more serious material.
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While it’s safe to say that Testimony Vol. 2 won’t catch on in today’s instant gratification-type climate, it’s an album that’s a satisfying listen straight through.
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The result feels like a lecture from the class goody-goody: instructive yet tedious.