Jamila Woods has released Heavn, an incredible debut album that shouts out with a voice of reason and power. In the midst of just the latest horrific killings of African-Americans, Jamila Woods’ Heavn offers listeners everywhere strength, truth and honesty. Her identity as black woman informs the entire album, as much a part of her music as it and her music are a part of her. Touching on everything from interpersonal relationships to political struggle and survival, and bearing witness to lives lost, her subject matter is contrasted by hooks that are light, bouncing forward with a constant sense of optimism even when the weight of sadness peaks through. Jamila’s strength as a singer and writer are all you need for musical success, and the gentle production gives her center stage throughout, gracefully backing her up. A supporting cast that features Chance the Rapper, Noname, Saba, Donnie Trumpet and more is simply another example of Heavn being a project that goes above and beyond. Heavn is a gift of an album.