Nineteen year-old Joanna Martino is a new addition to the Christian music scene. Her debut album, My World, is an attempt to leave her mark on an industry flooded with pop singers. The result is a strong pop album that showcases the young singer's powerful voice while communicating an overtly Christian message.

Martino kicks off the album with "Energy." The song begins with a soft piano and then blossoms into an upbeat track that sets the pace for the rest of the album. "Right Where You Want Me," continues Martino's blend of smooth pop with a rock edge. "God is Never Gone," has a techno tinge and encourages listeners by reminding them that God is present in every situation. "Fall" slows things down slightly and is a pledge to humble one's self before God. "You Love Me" picks up on the trend of Christian female artists singing songs about self-esteem while "Renegade" is a rocking track about love. "Lay it Down" encourages the listener to give everything over to God, while "This is My World" re-introduces the piano heard in the opening track for a welcomed change of pace, but Martino's rock element kicks in halfway through the song. "Road Less Traveled" ends My World and is easily the best song on the album.

Overall, My World a typical pop album that adds enough rock to keep things interesting. Martino's voice is her strongest weapon, and it resonates powerfully throughout the album. Some of the songs sound interchangeable, and the lyrics barely scratch the surface of the human experience. The songs are unashamedly Christian, although they sometimes resort to tired phrases and clichés.

Martino is a strong vocalist who can appeal to fans young and old. Those looking for a positive pop album with good beats will find satisfaction in My World. Those hoping for more variety both musically and lyrically should probably look elsewhere. Martino shows a lot of potential, and her debut is sure to earn her some fans.

- Review date: 12/29/05, written by Laura Nunnery of Jesusfreakhideout.com