Kathy Troccoli - The Heart Of Me (2002)

Kathy Troccoli will always be known as one of the founding members of the contemporary Christian music (CCM) movement, even though she's added the titles of author and inspirational speaker along the way. After a long absence from the charts, Troccoli teamed up with songwriter Nathan DiGesare in 1998 to release the superb Corner of Eden, yielding top hits "Psalm 23" and "Different Road." She's back again with chum DiGesare, and the result is more accessible, radio-friendly tracks bound to reaffirm Troccoli's stature in CCM. Listeners will experience a balance of tempo on The Heart of Me, with the upbeat "Take Me Higher" and peppy "Just Like You" offset by slower, heartfelt ballads like "He Will Shelter You" and "All for the Life of Me." Fast or slow, Troccoli masters the pace while showcasing her classically trained voice. One almost gets the sense that her pop stylings on Heart stifle her instrument. No matter, as Troccoli remains a stalwart of faith and a beacon of hope with songs that celebrate redeeming grace. --Michael Lyttle