Reviewed by Stephen Luff

Since becoming a CCM and Latin pop star, Jaci has taken time out for marriage and motherhood though has returned to the scene to present a popular radio programme. Here she releases her first new album for ages. 'Diamond' is a reference to smoothing the rough edges and creating a precious jewel. Musically, it's business as usual. The title track has all the classic ingredients of soaring vocals and top production and with more maturity than shown on some of her previous recordings. "Give Them Jesus" is a great pop song and is likely to become a radio hit. Jaci's warm voice is put to good use on "Stay" with its laid back approach. Fans of her Spanish material will not be disappointed with "Con El Viento A Mi Favor". For me the album highlights are "Girl" with its upbeat musical delivery offering friendly female advice and the dance influenced "Trust In You" with its faith inspired lyrics. The US Christian music scene has moved on since Jaci stepped back from it but here's hoping this most talented of Latin pop singers can still find a large audience for her work.

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Jaci Velasquez is back with her first major release since her marriage to fellow musician Nic Gonzales (Salvador)and the birth of their two children, Zealand and Soren.

Featuring the hit song, Give Them Jesus, Diamond reflects the depth and maturity of a woman, who like so many of her listeners, is trying to find balance in the midst of the pressures of everyday life while holding onto her dream of being an artist, author, actress and co-host of "Your Family Friendly Morning Show With Doug and Jaci" on The Fish, Nashville, which reaches over 1.5 million listeners nation-wide every week.