Once in a while we find these amazing new artists that rise up out of the comfort zone of their local church to explore new depths in the Christian music industry, and today I believe we could classify Rosemari as one of those exceptions. Acera Entertainment recording artist Rosemari has been singing since before she could walk and has participated in a wide variety of musical groups. From leading worship at her local church to becoming a member of Jericho Falls Band, Rosemari, at the age of 22, has proven her God given talent in many ways.

Rosemari's debut album First Love, produced by Paul S. Kim, is a remarkable freshman effort with a mixture of elements producing an interesting pop/rock sound. At the moment, listeners are looking for the new, original artists that have their own sound, lyrics, etc. With a combination of strong vocals from Rosemari, the different instruments used on the album ranging from guitar to piano, and the mature nature of her lyrics Rosemari could qualify as a distinctive artist. Although a few of her songs sound instrumentally similar at first, personally, when I first heard her music I was rather impressed.

Starting off the album is the title song "First Love", an acoustic pop song with truthful and personable lyrics. With lyrics like "Jesus you alone shall be my first love, yeah, you will find me running after You, Jesus you alone shall be my first love, yeah, every day and night I think of you," you could consider this a song of praise to Him. Next on the album comes "Every Time (Radio mix)", which begins with a smooth, short, and sweet piano intro which lasts through most of the song. As a catchy song, the mood of the song goes from slow and melodic to more upbeat during the chorus. Later in the album you find "All I Need", a slow piano-driven worship song where expresses her love for the Lord in this song with lyrics like "All I need is to see You face to face, here with You I find myself only moving towards Your grace, all I need is to touch your nail pierced hands, only proves your love for me will never fade away".

After listening to her album many times, I find that Rosemari is a mature artist and will rise to incredible heights with her sincere lyrics and amazingly strong voice. Fans of the contemporary pop/rock sound may enjoy Rosemari's debut album. But, I suggest that everyone have a taste of something new and unique. Check out Rosemari's new album First Love.

- Review date: 9/20/04, written by Jessica Vander Loop