Alicia Keys – ‘The Element of Freedom’

Grammy-winning artist Alicia Keys returns with her fourth studio album, The Element of Freedom. Her remix of the hit song, “Empire State of Mind” actually sounds better than part one with Jay-Z. “This Bed” has an uptempo feel that sounds like a new-age Prince song. Keys also teams up with Drake for “Un-Thinkable (I’m Ready)” in which she talks about doing something wrong that feels right. One can’t help but wonder if this was written during her secret-turned-public affair with married producer Swizz Beatz, nevertheless, it is one of the best tracks on the album. While it is not as soulful as her first album, Songs In A Minor, this album took more of a pop approach, but it’s still worth a listen. –iesha daniels