Hailing from Kansas City, KS, is the new soul-infused rock and pop sound of Charity Von, a nineteen year old preacher's kid who wants to share her story of growing up as a PK. With influences such as Janis Joplin and Lauryn Hill, Charity has produced an interesting rock/neo-soul sound that will take your breath away. Showcasing vocals mature beyond her years, you would never guess the owner of this incredible voice was still in her teens.

The self-titled album opens with "Weight of the World" and moves into "The Narrow," both possessing strong pop/rock elements. Later in the track list, you find "Take Me Through It" and "I Believe In Miracles," which feature a neo-soul sound that takes an abrupt stand. Von is versatile in style and vocal deliverance but perhaps a little inconsistent as she juggles the more soulful and the more pop/rock friendly tracks. "You Make It Fine" is one of the more personable songs, while "In Your Presence" is a beautiful worship original.

Fans of Jessie Daniels, Sarah Kelly, or the R&B and rock/contemporary genres will enjoy Charity Von's debut. It may take a couple listens to fully grasp, but it's most certainly worth it.

- Review date: 11/20/04, written by Jessica Vander Loop