Here I Go Again

Sounds like … a blend of contemporary gospel, pop, and R&B for fans of singers such as Yolanda Adams and CeCe WinansAt a glance … a strong offering from a lush, versatile voiceTrack ListingKeep Doin'FriendsBecause of YouDelicate HeartHe's Concerned About YouHere I Go AgainGive PraiseJoy Comes With the SonI Can Do AnythingJoyI Was Created to Worship YouOnly You Are HolyStill the Same

For several years, Vanessa Williams was in the background. The former art teacher who joined the Richard Smallwood singers and sang behind Yolanda Adams was one of those artists known mostly by devoted readers of liner notes. Songs like "Angels" and the Dove-nominated "Holy Thou Art God" showcased her, but she remained relatively unknown. That changed with 2002's Vanessa, which peaked at number 7 on Billboard's gospel chart.

Williams steps to the foreground for a second time in Here I Go Again. It combines her silky soprano and traditional and contemporary gospel, pop, and R&B sounds, with lyrics focused on worship and encouragement for everyday situations.

The album opens with "Keep Doin'," a funky, uptempo track with cool, vibrant vocals and upbeat lyrics. "Friends" is a danceable, slightly jazzy track with warm, understated horns. "Because of You" features sleek vocal arrangements and a gentle, steady R&B sensibility. Other potential favorites include "He's Concerned About You," where simple keys accent rich lyrics, lush BGVs and Williams's tender, contemplative phrasing; and the saucy, energetic "Give Praise." A refreshing handling of a recurring theme, "Only You Are Holy" combines an enraptured, subtle-to-soaring lead, sweet instrumentation, emotive backing and a soaring bridge.

The only real misstep on the album is the title track, which Hezekiah Walker fans will recognize from Family Affair (1999). The background track and vocals are basically unchanged, making it essentially the same song with a different lead vocal. On an otherwise solid album, it feels like an afterthought.