Stacy Lattisaw - Young & In Love (1979) [Reissue 2009]

A far cry from the soulful ballads that would later make her a favorite in R&B circles, Lattisaw's debut album consists of remakes of '60s and '70s pop hits and a few pleasant, if forgettable, disco entries. Recorded when she was only 12, Young and in Love showcases a warm, sweet voice surprisingly mature for its age. Her subtlety and youthful emotion work to great effect on serene numbers like "Love Is Here Beside Us" and the title track (both disco and ballad versions are included); and her delivery of Petula Clark's classic, "Downtown," is as enjoyable as the original. On several cuts, Lattisaw has a few intonation problems here and there. But the bulk of the performances is consistent, making it an essential item for any loyal fan.