Album length: 11 tracks: 45 minutes, 10 seconds Street Date: February 22, 2005
After releasing her debut record on Vertical Records in 2002 and briefly joining the touring
circuits, Kara Williamson (then just Kara) seemed to have disappeared for a time.
Now she is back with a new label home, a new outlook, and a new record quite appropriately titled
Undisguised. While Kara doesn't break any new ground musically or lyrically,
Undisguised is a solid effort well-crafted for the Christian radio format.
Kara's latest work begins with the energetic "Bring It On." With its catchy "na-na's" and
upfront lyrical content (the song's bridge boldly proclaims "If you're looking for a pity party/
You won't find one here"), Kara seems unafraid of and ready for whatever life may bring.
Unfortunately the energy in that tune seemed to be lacking from the following few tracks. Although
these songs ("Where You Are," "More Than Enough," and "O Wounded King") display Kara's honesty,
the lyrics and arrangements may send some listeners searching for the "skip" button. However Kara
revisits the upbeat vibe again with "Everything I Need You Are," which boasts driving, piano-based
rhythms and nicely layered vocals. (Sound interesting? Listen, because it is!) While the title
track brings to mind the likes of Joy Williams with its soft beginning and upbeat chorus, others
such as "Love is for Always" and "Work it Out" show-off Kara's pop style which is a great fit for
her voice.
One of the albums best cuts, though, is "Dear Performer," a confronting letter Kara wrote to
herself. Even the listeners who may not appreciate the rich, beautiful arrangement, won't be able
to help but admire and respect Kara's genuine honesty and personal lyrics. Finally, the album
fades to a close with a cover of Michael W. Smith's "Never Been Unloved," where Kara's voice
delivers nicely. All in all, Undisguised is a good album, but the seemingly familiar
lyrical and musical content in places leave room for growth for the up-and-coming singer.
- Review date: 2/13/05, written by Lauren Summerford
Record Label:INO Records Album length: 11 tracks, 45 minutes and 10 seconds
Street Date: February 22, 2005
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