I was actually annoyed when this album art popped up on the generator, as I've heard Fast Car so many times that it's an automatic skip for me. The album opener eased me in, with a tune that I know and like and wouldn't actually have been able to attribute to Tracy Chapman. I let go of my Fast Car prejudice and was able to listen with an open mind, and to remember how I'd felt about the song when it was new to me, and to love it all over again. And the rest of the album was brand new to me, and such a joy and privilege to hear. Everything about this album felt so feminine, so soft and gentle while addressing so much that is awful and wrong. Aside from the important issues it raises regarding civil rights, violence against women and children, greed and poverty, it also leaves space for the small matters of the human heart. It is sad and sweet and sobering. As someone who usually appreciates lyrics more than audio, this was a perfect first album for the 1001. I'm grateful to have been able to listen to it.