Arie shows growth on Voyage

India.Arie's "Growth" introduces and consistently describes the tracks that follow it on her excellent album, Voyage To India. That statement weighs more than it seems, considering the maturity of Arie's debut, Acoustic Soul. With Acoustic Soul, she described her sound and mood. Grooving soul grounded by polished, singer-songwriter folk, Arie's debut evoked an easy, earthy feel. \nVoyage to India, Arie's sophomore album, elaborates on the musical perspective she previously established. On this release, India.Arie also reiterates her personal values. "Talk To Her" advocates respect for strong women. Songs like "Little Things" and "The Truth" express beauty in simplicity and joy in all the ways "a woman can love a man." \nVoyage To India expands Acoustic Soul's characteristics by adding perfectly positioned instrumental nuances. Ricky Quinones's classical guitar flourishes are one example of the subtle elements that provide flavor throughout the album. The nuances could be attributed to the fact that India.Arie joined Kedar Massenburg in producing Voyage To India.\nIt is evident in her vocals that India.Arie has continued to develop her artistic sensibilities since Acoustic Soul. Her voice warms with love ballads, but there is always strength behind it. Arie's soulful embellishments are never gratuitous. No Mariah Carey-like banshee moments distract from her songs. India.Arie knows when and how to use her voice to develop her melodies and add emotion to her songs. \nMore than any of the album's other attributes, Voyage to India's songs deserve high praise. India.Arie has filled this album with great melodies. She made it difficult to highlight gems in a review. It is the entire album that stands out because all of her tracks shine. A joy to listen to with each song, Voyage To India is a must-have for anyone who enjoys her debut and an exceptional addition to anyone's music collection.