Eighteen-year-old Jessie Daniels may just now be first releasing her major label project, but this girl is no newcomer to the entertainment business. Since before she was even a teenager, Daniels began scoring commercial spots, musical theatre acting roles, and print ad gigs. Indeed some may view this artist as a seasoned performer. So how does Jessie Daniels' self-titled record fit in with an already impressive resume? Simply put, this album shows off Daniels as a talented, multi-faceted performer.

Jessie Daniels falls quite comfortably into the ever-popular pop/rock category but leaves enough room to distinguish Daniels from many of her musical counterparts. Of course, fans of the likes of Joy Williams, Bethany Dillon, Krystal Meyers, and BarlowGirl will find themselves fond of this twelve-track collection. Somehow this disc has a unique quality to it that makes it nearly impossible not to like. Lead single "The Noise," which also serves as the opening track, is proof of this considering the song quickly climbed up radio charts. Similarly, "Everyday" displays even greater potential to become a favorite on the radio waves in the near future. Both tunes are carried by Daniels' youthful energy but the forthcoming "Hold Me Now" shows the maturity of this young performer. The aforementioned track is described as a worship song by the singer, which serves as a cry for Jesus to carry her through life's hard times. Regardless of what each song may sound like, Daniels' vocals resonate through every one beautifully, presenting her with the chance of becoming one of Christian music's greatest young talents in the coming years.

While the sound of Jessie Daniels' release is completely enjoyable, it's her lyrics that make her music relevant. "Stand Out" is one of the many songs where Daniels' sings of her desire to live a life according to the ways of God rather than the ways of the world. A commitment to change one's lifestyle is the central theme of the upbeat "What Happened To Me." Though all the lyrics paired with excellent backing tracks and powerful vocals make the disc worthwhile, it's "Hello/Goodbye" that sets itself apart as one the project's best numbers. "Hello/Goodbye," which seems to be all about leaving sinful nature and selfish ways behind, is executed in a similar fashion to MercyMe's recent hit "So Long Self."

If you're looking for a serious flaw in Jessie Daniels, you'll be hard pressed to find one. This is possibly one of the most well crafted debuts I've heard in years. The excitement building up around Daniels' album should have listeners ready to grab this one as soon as it hits shelves. Jessie Daniels' musical premiere is inviting. If her past is any indicator, she has quite the future ahead of her.

- Review date: 6/3/06, written by Lauren Summerford