Solange Knowles released her third studio album, “A Seat at the Table,” in late September, and it was no let down.

The long anticipated album starts off on a somber note with the song “Rise”  and continues on in the same tone with tracks, “Weary” and “Interlude: The Glory is in You.”

“Cranes In the Sky” starts to shift the album’s tone upward with a more upbeat rhythm and lyrics.

Overall, the album is an incredible work by Knowles, and features many other big name artists such as  Lil’ Wayne, Sampha and Kelly Rowland. These artists played a big part in the success of the album.

In the track “Interlude: Dad Was Mad,” listeners begin to get a real sense of the album’s messages.

As listeners move forward through the album into “Mad”, “Interlude: Tina Taught Me,” “Dont Touch My Hair” and especially, “F.U.B.U.”, it becomes even more clear.

In proper Knowles fashion, she didn’t hesitate to use this album as a platform to speak on important issues in the world derived from her personal experiences.

She talks about the injustices she sees in society, addressing issues such as racial stereotypes, the history of racism in America, and the way she has walked through the world with these realities.

Memorable songs that really stick out include “Mad” and “Dont Touch My Hair.” “Mad” included relatable lyrics. The song talks about moving about the world with a constant feeling of anger.

The specific kind of anger she addresses is derived from circumstances where people are oppressed for things they cannot change.

Knowles lends her voice to empathize with this anger and offers a way out through letting go.

“Dont Touch My Hair” gave off an empowering message. It’s an anthem about self-empowerment and confidence, consistent with themes in the rest of the album.

The song talks about maintaining people’s own identity on their own terms, and owning what’s theirs.

Knowles touches on the integral part hair plays in identity and the point that no one is entitled to judge beauty of others. .

Knowles showed obviousgrowth from previous albums with deeper lyrics, more spectacular visuals, and more panache than ever.

The album  projected a feeling of honesty and understanding to listeners. It possessed a certain style that is going to be hard to top.

Overall I give the album four out of four grizzly paws. It was incredible, and amazing to listen to, while holding a  solid message.

I would definitely recommend it and give it four out of four Grizzly paws.