"The best selling solo debut artist in the history of the Christian market" could be compared to any number of pop divas, and at her young age she certainly has accomplished much. With Crystal Clear, she continues on the path begun at the tender age of fourteen, and while I'm not totally familiar with Jaci's previous work, this new release shows maturity and catchy, solid songwriting – not unlike a hybrid of Miami Sound Machine, Jennifer Lopez, and perhaps a smidgen of the pop stylings of Rebecca St. James.
Horns, swanky guitars, and Latino influences season the opening track, "Escuchame (Listen to Me)" which gives candid advice in following God's leading. The title track "Crystal Clear" is reminiscent of Peter Gabriel's "In Your Eyes," soaked in the same haunting quality that still makes Gabriel's song such a great tune years later. "Everytime I Fall" has a Britney Spears-ish sound, which could be good or bad, depending on your convictions. It is very danceable, and sticks with you for a while after the song is over. There are both tender worshipful tunes, such as "Adore," (take note of those vocal chops on this one,) and peppy, Spanish guitar laced tunes, such as "You Don't Miss a Thing."
Jaci's music falls on the CCM side of things, granted, but she has a charming voice, and exhibits much more pure talent than Britney, Christina, or Mandy put together.
Other coverage for this album
ReAL Magazine 2000Reviewed by Stephanie K.At the age of 20 Jaci Velasquez is making a name for herself and continuing her strong performance with her fourth release, Crystal Clear. Velasquez combines a traditional pop sound with a twist of Latin to create some bold and uplifting new hits. Velasquez's music is similar to popular Latin singers Ricky Martin and Jennifer Lopez. It's like Amy Grant meets Ricky Martin. The album offers a…The Phantom Tollbooth 2000Reviewed by Zik JacksonDove® Award winner and Grammy® nominee Jaci Velasquez releases her fourth album Crystal Clear to an anxiously waiting audience. After having successfully ventured into the Latin pop world with her Sony Discos release Llegar A Ti, Velasquez returns to her Christian pop roots with a newly-minted Latin fan base in tow while her loyal Christian fans patiently seek her homecoming. Eager not to…The Phantom Tollbooth 2000Reviewed by Janet FriesenOne thing can definitely be said for Jaci Velasquez--she sure can sing! The young gal with the powerful voice showcases it again in her fourth release Crystal Clear. After winning over the AC Christian market with her A Heavenly Place and Jaci Velasquez cd's and then making a hit in the Latin music market with her Llegar A Ti disk, Velasquez combines the influences of both with eleven songs that…Similar sounding releases
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