FamilyFans Music
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Joy
Williams
Joy Williams / Reunion
Records
Chalk another one up for
the current youth movement in Christian pop. This time it’s California
girl/recent high school graduate, Joy Williams, with a self-titled debut from
Reunion Records. I have to admit, I took one look at the sugary blonde on the
cover and was tempted to dismiss this CD as “just-another
–pretty-white-girl-trying-to-cash-in-on-current-bubble-gum trends.”
Big mistake.
Yes, Joy Williams, is
young. Yes, she sings in that pop style akin to Backstreet Boys or Jaci
Velasquez or ZOEgirl. No, she’s not “just another…” anything. In this
CD, she exhibits a surprising vocal depth and maturity along with a youthful
energy that’s just downright fun to listen to, comparisons notwithstanding.
Filled with catchy hooks
and a lyrical emphasis on faith, Joy delivers a radio-friendly showcase that
should be readily accessible in both Christian and mainstream circles.
Highlights here are easy to find. They include the power-pop anthem of
commitment, “No Less,” the balladic worship melody, “ I Believe in You,”
and (my favorite) the danceable, True Vibe-esque, “Up.”
In all, Joy
Williams is a strong debut from an artist who, like wine, is only going
to get better with age.
--Mike Nappa
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