Reviewed by Tony Cummings

When in 2001 Joy was launched onto the Nashville CCM scene many perceived her self-titled debut as Christendom's answer to the Britney teen pop phenomenon though in fact as that and her 2003 follow up 'By Surprise' showed, this singer is able to perform classy ballads and funky R&B as well as catchy pop ditties. Now with her third album Joy seems to have come of age, showing herself not only to be an affecting vocalist but also a composer prepared to bare her thoughts and feelings of the trials and triumphs of walking the narrow path of faith. Lyrically Joy leaves behind teenage topics to expose new insight into spiritual and romantic themes. "I'm In Love With You" clearly came out of her recent marriage and with memorable lines ("Love is joy and love is rain/It's like kissing in the rain/It's doing dishes when it's late") and with a deft accompaniment of piano and acoustic guitars it is one of Williams' most assured performances so far. For those who enjoy funkier fare, "Stay" with some clever programming wouldn't be out of place on a Pink album while "Beautiful Redemption" is a soaring ballad which will no doubt get exposure on American inspirational radio. Possibly the best cut of all is "Silence" which one reviewer has already suggested sounds like Plumb. All in all, the creative marriage between this gifted singer/songwriter and producer Matt Bronleewe (Natalie Imbruglia, Rebecca St James) is an assured one.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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