The song titles speak volumes for A Seat At The Table: "Don't Touch My Hair," "Rise," "F.U.B.U.," "Where Do We Go," "Borderline (An Ode To Self Care)." For her third full-length, Solange responds to the current social and political climate, and it's an extremely personal affair aided by a strong & smooth neo soul musical backdrop (exec. produced by Raphael Saadiq). The first single, "Rise," debuted last year and is inspired by police brutalities in Ferguson and Baltimore, and the shimmery "Don't Touch My Hair" featuring Sampha is a warning against forces threatening the autonomy of her body (as well as bodies of other black women). It's a gentle, soothing listen as far as the production is concerned, but the message is very loud and very clear, which makes A Seat The The Table a must listen. Other tracks to check out: "Cranes in the Sky," "Mad," "Weary," "Don't You Wait." Recommended!

• music label: Columbia 2016

reviewed by kanim 12/2016