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Janelle Monae, "The Archandroid"

( Jennifer S. Altman / For The Times )

A funky meditation on the complexities of race, desire and spiritual freedom that's also a wild sci-fi adventure, this work opens up new dimensions.

Related:

- Notes on a Year: Ann Powers on pop music

- Janelle Monae in Wondaland

- Album review: Janelle Monae's 'The ArchAndroid'

2010 in review: Ann Powers on pop music