Reviewed by Lins Honeyman

This country gospel singer based in New York (New York country music?) was a surprise guest on Mike Rimmer's Rimmerama radio programme awhile back. This, her second album, is a collection of new songs mostly co-penned with fellow country artist Nathan Lee Jackson. Paparelli wastes no time in throwing herself into the Shania Twain styled opener "What God Looks Like" but, although the big bold new country sound keeps the song chugging along, the lyrics (and the delivery) come across as somewhat cumbersome. The quieter and more reflective numbers such as the Paparelli/Jackson duet "Loving Me Can't Be Easy" and the accomplished song of hope "One Life" tend to work better and portray the singer in her best light. However, Paparelli's vocal performance sounds rushed on many of the tracks and does not match the quality of the musicianship and production on show here. Tracks like "You" have been evidently set too low for Paparelli's voice and the title track's nervy vocal delivery detracts from what could potentially be a dynamic song about preparing for Jesus' return. The highlight of the album is the blues-tinged "So Clearly" which fits Paparelli's vocal style perfectly and is aided by some delicious lead guitar from Jason Roller. Karen has bags of potential but more careful production will be needed to get her noticed in Nashville.

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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