Jaci Velasquez – Diamond
Feb 15, 2012 CD Reviews
Posted by
wiegmake
Jaci Velasquez
Diamond
Grade – A+
It’s hard to believe that it’s been 20 years since Jaci Velasquez entered the music scene. She’s no stranger to the industry and has released several major hits including “On My Knees”, “Flower In the Rain” and “Imagine Me Without You”. It’s been 4 years since fans last heard from Jaci, but while “Diamond” has been a long time coming, it certainly doesn’t disappoint.
“Diamond” sets the tone for the very intimate, personal tone the rest of the album as Jaci gives listeners a glimpse into hear hopes, fears, and dreams. In the opening track, she compares life’s struggles to the long and often painful transformation from coal to diamonds. God’s plan isn’t always obvious at the time, but as look back we can see how He “takes an ordinary life and fills it with light, like a diamond.”
“Give Them Jesus” serves as the album’s first single. In the catchy pop song, Jaci sings about her desire to share the love of Jesus with the world. “I want to lead them to the light” – “to give them love, give them Jesus.”
“Tell Me Again” is a beautiful, honest prayer. She starts with “right now my mistakes are so much bigger than my trust” and then pleads “tell me again that I am loved. Tell me again, my heart cannot hear it enough.” The song has a very personal tone that will hit home with many people who’ve ever longed for God’s embrace.
In “Guilt”, Jaci toys with an edgy, rock sound (and it works!) The lyrics revolve around the freedom and change that only comes in God’s divine mercy and forgiveness. “The conviction’s overturned and I am pure. I’m not guilty anymore.”
“Diamond” is an excellent release from one of Christian music’s most beloved artists. While Jaci explores a more “mainstream” sound than in her previous works, each song has something to offer. From “Con El Viento A Mi Favor”, a beautiful Spanish track to the piano-driven “Good Morning Sunshine”, the messages of hope, forgiveness, and love are undeniable. At every turn, “Diamond” is big, bold and beautiful. And it truly shines!
- Tom F.
