Jessie J
Who You Are
(Lava Music/Republic Records)

Jessie J has the potential to be a great singer. The pop star seemingly appeared out of nowhere recently with a bevy of television performances and a slew of awards. With that said, the line between good and great is the unfortunate part of Who You Are–her much anticipated debut album.

Jessie J, otherwise known as Jessica Cornish, may be joining the ranks of several British pop-soul divas and BRIT School alumni, which already includes Amy Winehouse, Adele, Katy B., Marsha Ambrosius and the boy of the bunch, up-and-coming soul singer Jamie Woon.

However, Who You Are is filled with the kind of verbal gymnastics that should overwhelm the listener instead of annoy. With the exception of a few tracks (“Do It Like a Dude,” “Price Tag,” “Casualty of Love,” “Mamma Knows Best,” and “Who You Are”—read: pop singles) the remaining selections are a mix bag of under-produced and haphazardly hurried tunes. Jessie J is a likeable personality and the album will probably be a commercial success. I just think she tried too hard to prove her vocal abilities. Better luck next album.