Grade: A-
India.Arie’s fifth studio album, “Songversation,” made its debut this week. India returns from a four-year hiatus with more of the same, but that may not be a bad thing in her case. The songstress continues to show off her velvety voice and lyrics about love, peace, and positivity. An interesting track on the album is India’s cover of “Strange Fruit.” The song, made famous in the 1930’s by singer Billie Holiday, was used as a poetic tool to expose American racism. India’s rendition is a mix of modern synthesizers and loud drums that still manages to keep in line with the jazzy feel of Holiday’s version. “Songversation” is a great album to listen to while lounging around this summer. Songs like “Thy Will Be Done,” a collaboration with reggae artist Gramps Morgan, and “Nothing That I Love More” should be added to every summer playlist.