This Crazy Life (by Joanna, Pop)

THIS CRAZY LIFE is the debut album from Joanna (Pacitti), a talented young singer with a powerful and multifaceted voice. After performing on a local talent show and in a production of Annie at age 16 (when she was signed by Geffen Records) she was the subject of MTV's True Life series documenting her efforts to make a record. Five years later, this CD is the admirable result. The "hit makers" from Geffen Records (including Ron Fair, who helped launch Christina Aguilera's career) enlist a veritable army of musicians here: string sections, choirs, and programmers. All, it seems, in a somewhat futile effort to keep up up with the mighty pipes of Joanna. These soaring guitar solos, power rock chords, and lush string and choral arrangements often conflict with Joanna's astonishing voice.

Joanna's performances have a range and maturity that belie her youth. Underneath the din of instruments, you'll find Joanna's youthful poetry -- she co-wrote seven of the 11 tracks. Her words reflect the Herculean effort to make a record, a struggle for independence, taking chances, and doing what you are most passionate about while still experiencing and appreciating this crazy life. This leap of creative freedom, as well as her astonishing vocal talent, point to her potential.

Released on: August 15, 2006
Label: Geffen Records
Genre: Pop