It’s really such a pleasant surprise when you realise that an artist that you cherish and admire is also very popular in the general community. I couldn’t believe my eyes when I read that India Arie has been nominated for no fewer than 17 Grammy’s, having won two. Furthermore, her albums have all been extremely popular, garnering multi-platinum status. Really, how fantastic, because there can be no modern soul star who deserves this success more.India Arie’s new album, Testimony Vol.2, Love & Politics, the follow-up to her 2006 outing Testimony Vol1, Life & Relationships, is a true stunner and has come at a time when I was craving some Arie. It varies from gorgeous slow-jam’s such as Pearls featuring Dobet Gnahore, and the great up-beat sound found on Therapy featuring Gramps Morgan.Arie’s greatness stems from her ability to move seamlessly between honey-soaked love ballads, and really hard-hitting political pieces. One of these songs is Ghetto, where Arie draws strong comparisons between the ghettos of America and of Africa. Better Way featuring blues legend Keb Mo has the best Soul and Blues fused beat I’ve heard, and the way in which Arie’s voice interplays with Mo’s guitar is pure magic.Also featuring…