Spirit (by Leona Lewis, Pop)

British pop import Leona Lewis has become quite a sensation in the U.S. After winning a British talent competition, her music has been climbing the charts in both Europe and over here. Mostly an album of ballads and lightweight mid-tempo tracks about a broken heart, "Forgive Me" and "Better in Time" will get you up and moving.

Leona Lewis has had a slew of press coverage lately comparing her to vocal powerhouses Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston, two of the most gifted singers that can reach notes so high, all the dogs in the neighborhood come running. Lewis is no different. The versatility of her range is idyllic and is made crystal clear on songs like "Yesterday" and "Footprints in the Sand." The pop wunderkind's vocal interpretation can make even emptiness and loneliness seem like something we should all crave. And her rendition of "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" will have you weeping. All told, Lewis' U.S. debut is absolute enjoyment in its purest form.

Released on: April 8, 2008
Label: J Records
Genre: Pop