Beyonce is back with a new album and this time she’s brought a friend with her – otherwise known as Sasha Fierce, her onstage alter ego.

Queen of R&B Beyonce, who was the second highest paid musician in 2007 and 2008, covers many of the tried and true themes common to music, namely love and the pursuit of it. She does not, however, limit herself to a discussion of lost love; but explores many other themes relevant to modern society.

‘Ave Maria’ is an unusual song, and for this reason it stands out on the album. It is one of the only songs that even touches on the idea of God, which is a little surprising given Beyonce’s background (among other things she was a soloist in her church’s choir). However, this does make the song stand out. “I know the cost of losing hard, ever for the grace of God, go I”. This idea is again echoed further on in the song. “While you’re busy making plans…then you realise It’s out of your hands”.  It is interesting to hear this kind of message being promoted in the secular music industry – the idea that humans need God (gasp!) and that we ourselves do not control our own worlds is so out of place in this context that it is refreshing.

On the flipside, many of the other songs on the album almost deny a need for God – the message is that if you don’t have money or a ‘healthy’ ego then you aren’t worth knowing. This is evident in the two songs ‘Diva’ and ‘Ego’. ‘Diva’ says “Gettin’ money, diva’s gettin’ money. If you ain’t gettin’ money then you ain’t got nothing for me”. Likewise, ‘Ego’ says “Some call it arrogant, I call it confident”.  These songs promote consumerism and self-importance and the idea that some people are worth more that others. In this world there is clearly no room for God.

This album is a bit of a mixed bag – some of the songs point quite clearly to God and the kind of life he wants for us, while many of the other songs deny this almost completely. While this could be confusing for listeners, it does make the album more interesting, and could provide for some good discussion. The clash of cultures and beliefs that Beyonce seems to be stuck in is common for a lot of people. It will be interesting to see in her next album which belief system seems stronger.