Katy Hudson
(self titled)
Red Hill Records
2001

With a rich, passionate voice that belies her age, sixteen-year-old Katy Hudson has entered the music world. Her self-titled album is composed of what Hudson, in an online interview calls "jazzy pop music". This album is a great sample of Katy's talent, and a taste of what is to come from this young artist.

Many of the songs on this album deal with issues both teens and adults struggle with. 'Growing Pains' talks about being wet behind the ears and touches on how young people feel as they come into their own, and on how all people feel as they grow in faith. No matter where we are in life, we can all relate to 'Faith Won't Fail,' which celebrates how God prevails even in the worst of times.

Although the lyrics are varied, many of the songs start to sound alike by the time you reach the end of the album. They have a driving, strong accompaniment that becomes overwhelming when heard over and over. Hudson shows some promise of getting out of that rut with 'Last Call.' This song has a fun, lilting beginning that is reminiscent of some of Tori Amos' songs.

Unlike most young people in the music world, Hudson does not try to hide behind skimpy clothes and lyrics that are too old for her. Instead, she says this is who I am and gives it her all. This attitude carries over into her music and gives it a gutsy, fearless quality. (Heather E.)