Kelis’ fresh tone

The title of Kelis’s latest record since 2006’s “Kelis Was Here” might invoke disco and ballet slippers.

But “Flesh Tone” literally describes the overall color of the record.

The disc finds our typically funky Space&B diva chilled out for some dance floor tracks that ponder the meaning of life. Think Madonna’s coming-of-new-age opus “Ray of Light.”

The mantra is stated best on “Scream”: “Been runnin’ in place for a long time / Stuck in a race in the wrong line.”

That’s one theme.

Another contrasting theme presented in that song is established with the lyrics: “It’s not enough to live so just dream / It’s not enough to sing, so just scream.”

Kelis is meditating on the freedom that comes with realizing one’s life is in need of a change (see “Emancipate/Segue 5”). Following the birth of her son and divorce from rapper Nas, the change here is evident.

While old fans may miss the screaming wild-haired I-hate-you-so-much chick, “Flesh Tone” invites them to taste Kelis’ new milkshake.

It might not bring all the boys to the yard, but it will certainly bring them to her heart.