When a slightly younger Krystal Meyers released her self-titled debut just over a year ago, the Avril Lavigne -reminiscent teen clearly had a lot on her mind. Now with her sophomore outing, Dying For A Heart, Meyers' still has a full agenda. People are obviously listening too-just consider her growing popularity here in the U.S. as well as her new "pop star" status in Japan. There's no doubt that this girl is putting her fame to good use.

Raging rocker "Collide" serves as the album's opener and lead single. This song proves that Meyers has no intentions of creating a mere replica of her debut disc…simply stated, this one sounds nothing of her first hit "The Way To Begin." In fact, all ten tracks show a new maturity and enthusiasm from the singer. Not only do these songs break new musical ground for Meyers' but they explore new lyrical territory as well. "Beauty of Grace" is the best example of this. The gorgeous rock ballad finds her singing of the love of God for His child: "Anywhere you are is never too far away/ There's freedom from your scars/ The mistakes that you've made, forgiven/ The memories erased/ Maybe that's the beauty of grace." Indeed, "Beauty of Grace" shows some serious potential to be a huge radio hit.

Embracing deeper topics than on Krystal Meyers seems to be a key theme of Dying For A Heart. One of the heaviest hitting tunes on the record is "The Situation." The alternative rock number closely follows an encounter between two young people who find themselves willing to compromise their purity. Though the verses are blunt and vivid, Meyers uses the chorus to offer hope and encouragement to flee from temptation ("A promise made to treasure/ You don't have to give it away/ Falling for the pressure/ You can't mend a vow when it breaks./ Explain your hesitation/ Jesus can be your escape/ Don't taint the situation/ This love was made to wait"). Elsewhere, on "Stand and Scream" (co-written with Tiffany Arbuckle Lee aka Plumb and popular producer Matt Bronleewee), teens are reminded to stand up for what they believe regardless of treatment from peers, filling the almost obligatory "Anticonformity" type song spot. Other topics such as loving those around us ("Love Is On The Run"), living life to the fullest ("Live"), and finding fulfillment in Christ alone ("Only You Make Me Happy") all contribute to making Dying For A Heart all that it is.

Some may wonder how this album stands up against Ms. Meyers impressive debut record. There should be no worries - Dying For A Heart is good. This talented teenage did an incredible job of exceeding expectations and crafting together what I believe to be one of the best rock albums of the year. With the whole world watching, Meyers will no doubt make some waves and watch a successful career blossom in front of her.

- Review date: 8/31/06, written by Lauren Summerford