REVIEW

Etana packs a punch on 'Better Tomorrow'

By AP's Bianca Roach

[February 26, 2013]  NEW YORK (AP) -- Etana, "Better Tomorrow" (VP Records)

Etana delivers a mature and confident sound with top-notch lyrical content and unique vocals on her third studio album, "Better Tomorrow."

The Jamaican singer's soulful roots are strong as she pays homage to earlier eras of reggae on tracks such as the empowering "Queen" and the infectious "Reggae." She finds a fresh perspective on the happy song "Beautiful Day," and "All I Need" is full of emotion and desire.

Her strong-minded nature sees the 29-year-old go to new levels on each of the album's songs, making "Better Tomorrow" her best album to date.

The album opener, "Spoken Soul," is a verbal statement speaking of her "musical journey" and need for a "better tomorrow." It's an expressive message that is simple, yet strong.

[Associated Press; By BIANCA ROACH]

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