Lari White - Stepping Stone (1998)

Lari White has one of the finest voices in popular music. Her ability to bring the strength of her gospel background to anything she sings makes her talent a real treasure. Sadly, she has been misused and abused by the factory system in Music City and has not attained the success she should have. But quality can't be overlooked; like cream, it rises to the top. And while most of the material on this project is not worthy of her talent, she still makes a good showing all across the board. Perhaps the most stunning performance this time out is "You Can't Go Home Again," a traditional tune that allows White to show off the prowess in her vocal style. Just as good is the Deborah Allen/Chuck Jones tune "On a Night Like This," which showcases White's ability to rock. The thing about Lari White is that no matter the calibre of material, for better or worse, she makes you believe every word she sings.