Something is different about Miss Erykah Badu this time around. Most likely because she’s aged and had children. The fact is: She’s all grown up on her new album, “New Amerykah, Pt. One (4th World War). This theme is highlighted in the lyrics of “Me,” the third track: “If she has to choose between / I choose Me.”

“New Amerykah” is far more biographical, political and explorative of racial issues than any of her previous albums where she sung primarily about love, butterflies and Tyrone.

One song, “Soldier,” laments the realities of gang violence and children “packin’ heat,” a far cry from her famous tracks from “Baduizm” such as “On and On” that explored spirituality and hope for the “Next Lifetime.”

Overall the mixes and vibes are clearly still part of Badu’s previous roots, but the tree has grown and she’s no longer concerned with the trivialities of drama.

Many hardcore Badu fans may be disappointed by her departure from her more bluesy deliveries of past albums, but if you listen very closely you’ll still hear the same rhythm and soul that defines her as an evolving artist.

Grade: B+