True Beauty
Artist: Mandisa 
Label: Sparrow
Length: 11/43:02

Two years ago, Mandisa made a splash on American Idol_for three reasons:  her voice, her refusal to back down in singing faith-oriented songs, and unfortunately, her size.  The plus-sized model and singer was told by Simon Cowell her weight would ultimately be a factor in her eventual exit from the show.

As we all know, that show has more to do with popularity and the ability to cash in than talent.  Some of its performers find their exit to be the best thing that ever happened to them – they can make their own music without being forced into the overproduction of Idol's hit making machine (Daughtry being the most notable example).  

Mandisa is making her own way quite nicely in the post-Idol world, writing a book, doing work as a spokesmodel, and releasing her first album, True Beauty.  It should come as no surprise the album deals with themes of self-esteem, fighting against the need to meet the world's standards, and releasing what really counts.

"Only the World" is the single that was unavoidable on CCM radio.  Vocally, it's not my style at all, and it needs more lead, less backup vocals. "Shackles" is a Mary Mary remake that started the Idol flap.  "Love Somebody" features TobyMac, and on "Oh My Lord" Mandisa is joined by the Fisk Jubilee Singers, a group she participated in during her college years.

Mandisa's voice is part Nicole C. Mullen, part Sandy Patty (especially on "He Will Come" and the title track), and part every great female R & B singer of our time.  The album is a bit too slick at times, but the vocal talent can't be denied.  The question for the future is if she can emerge as a songwriter, and a role model for females who struggle with similar issues. 

Brian A. Smith
26 April 2008