ALBUM DESCRIPTION

Out of the Afrikan Roots Lab comes Jessy (Jacinta Barbel) and her release "Blessed." Throughout the 11 tracks, Jessy shows her strong ability to glide effortlessly through a wide range of vocal pitches.

She opens the release with a wonderful rendition of "Amazing Grace." The simple piano accompaniment is the perfect compliment, emphasizing her strong vocals without drawing attention away from it. The uplifting tone is similar to Whitney Houston in her earlier works. On the title track, Jessy shows that not only is she a strong vocalist, but she confidently possesses the lyric writing ability. Over a one-drop inspired rhythm, she pours forth robust vocals about her thankfulness for being blessed by God's graces. The bubbling organ returns on "Hold On" as Jessy offers her uplifting words of encouragement. With a soulful voice similar to Natalie Cole's, she sings "Hold on, He understands / Hold on, He'll be there to hold your hand/Hold on, He is your friend/ Hold on, He'll be there til the end." Straying away from the Reggae flavorings of the previous tracks, "I Bow" presents Jacinta Barbel atop a piano-driven ballad. Her voice carries the song all the way from beginning to end. "I'm Not Bound" brings out the horns and heat things up with a Calypso infused anthem for the Children of God. The tantalizing brass and pulsating percussion blends into a Caribbean canvas upon which Jessy declares her Freedom.

Relying heavily on simple instrumentals, specifically pianos and brass, Jessy's I'm Blessed is carried by her strong and soulful voice. Blending elements of Reggae, Gospel, Soul and R&B Jessy offers a solid project for those interested in hearing heartfelt lyrics and intense vocals. Although, the project is not purely Reggae, listeners will be delighted by Jacinta's ability to hold her own in several genres through her harmonizing and calm voice. Sincere, heartfelt and soulful, Jessy's project is a great addition to any collection.

Review by Lourdes Capulong