One 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 are upbeat, joyful and make "crystal clear" the source of her joy. "I try to let my records reflect who I am," muses Jaci, "because I think songs are soundtracks for life; and life is very good."
Mark Heimermann is once again in the producer's seat and is joined by Latin producer Rudy Perez. There's not much new ground broken here, but it is a collection of solid songs that will fit nicely into AC radio rotation. From ballads such as "Adore," a prayer to lay one's life before the Lord, to dance pop numbers such as "You Don't Miss a Thing" a recognition of God's knowledge of all we are, Velasquez's voice is strong and controlled. The Latin influence is very evident. The project opens with "Escuchame" a song written by Velasquez about the many reminders that she has gotten over the years from her mother. "Come As You Are" is a duet with the well-known Latin singer Luis Fonsi. Even the pop ballads such as "Imagine Me Without You" contain Latin elements such as the strains of Latin guitars.
Jaci Velasquez is a true talent. Hers is the standard that all of the young, female singers in Christian music are trying to attain. So far none have reached as far. Her success in the Latin music market, and subsequent decision to continue to make her message of God's love her number one priority, is testimony to a character that is as strong as her vocal abilities. This is not cutting edge music, but for those who enjoy light, joyful, Christian pop this disk is one to own.
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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…Bandoppler 2000Reviewed by Sucré Musique"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…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…Similar sounding releases
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