KARINA PASIAN: FIRST LOVE [ALBUM REVIEW].....

Karina Pasian's debut album 'First Love' unveiled itself this week, which isn't too bad considering that the album is officially released next week Tuesday via Def Jam (August 19th). Hailed as a younger Alicia Keys, Karina impresses on her thrilling debut. She's worked with an array of top notch producers such as Tricky Stewart, The Dream, Rico Love, Ryan Leslie, Gordon Chambers and her label mate Ne-yo. In the opening number '90's Baby', Karina proudly emphasises being born in the 90's, which is pretty impressive considering she has the vocal prowess of someone much older. The bouncy dance number doesn't display Karina's amazing singing skill but the song is infectious with an equally catchy hook. The same can also be said towards the Lil Mama-assisted 'Baby Baby'. The pop-tinged R&B cut 'Can't Find The Words' is backed by a rhythmic piano and showcases a more mature side to the 16-year-old. And that maturity is further displayed on lead single '16 @ War' which is a great representation of Independence and Self-Consciousness. The message behind the track is phenomenally inspirational.

Pop ballad 'Winner' is one of the few songs that showcases her vocals as confident and dominating as is the case with the sweet-natured 'The Love We Got'. With every note she sings, she makes the song believable. Winner has gorgeous arrangements and a great pop melody. 'Can You Handle It' deals with the insecurities that often plaque a relationship. The song is a cool midtempo R&B number that sees Karina allowing her more mature side to take over yet again. Power ballad 'Slow Motion' is the track that seals Karina as the extraordinary vocal talent that she truly is. She sings the song with so much poise, raw emotion and passion which makes for a pretty compelling song. The hairs on your neck will literally stand up. 'Can't Bring Me Down' has a more soulful edge and the album closes off with the slinky R&B number 'First Love'.

I think the album as a whole is fantastic. There is not one song on the album that I disapproved of. From beginning to end the album never falters. Some songs I liked more than others but that's to be expected with most albums anyway. And it makes a refreshing change to hear an album that doesn't thrive on just hot beats (especially ones that are heavily synthesized) but quality music, subject matter, lyrical content and vocal talent which was something Karina wanted to focus on and for that she gets a lot of respect. And to be honest with you, I got kind of fed up of listening to the electronic/euro-pop synthy dance-driven music that seems to have taken over all of a sudden. My only disappointment with the album is that it could have done with more than 11 tracks, which is kind of stingy for a debut. But apart from that, I think I'm about to listen to this again. I soooo wish I could say she is going to do great but I have to be realistic about things.....

Rating: 4/5