Reviewed by Andy Cooper

Christina Benjamin is a Detroit-based professional actress, singer and songwriter, and this seven track EP is released independently to follow on from her debut single of 2010. A delicate acoustic guitar begins, with an intimate vocal asking the Lord to breathe life. It seems like he does. Christina's voice is close, confident, smooth and versatile. She can wail with attitude one minute, plead with sensitivity the next. "Angel" is a highlight, with a slow R&B feel and a chorus of harmonies flying around the mix, as well as a lyric that lifts. "Holding Me Close" follows with a modern ballad, showing a more passionate side of Christina's abilities. Both Beyoncé and Leona Lewis come to mind when thinking about comparisons, but they don't come close to the special spiritual content found in the gospel R&B presented here. I'm looking forward to more from this lady.

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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