Sidewalks On The Corner

Previous Sidewalks guest Lina returns with a new album, and she's sounding stronger than ever.

Follow up:

Three years after her hit album, "The Inner Beauty Movement," Lina returns with a shining example of pure imagination with her new album, "Morning Star".

I had a chance to take a listen to the 20-track CD, and I found it to be a refreshing change for the unique neo-soul singer. Everyone can expect to take away something from this album, whether you're into jazz, hip-hop, R&B or soul; it's filled with a positive attitude about life, love and music.

Lina has woven her unique blend of obscure 30's and 40's jazz and blues with 70's soul/R&B, which floats behind her swooning Billie Holiday-influenced vocal arrangements. Although there are plenty of excellent slinky grooves, there are some standout tracks, such as "Feel The Love," where she gives a shout out to all 50 states. It's a song expressing her appreciation for her fans, and the people who have supported her throughout her career. The emotionally sweeping track, “Good Day," is another great song, which is practically a prayer set to music.

Unlike Lina's obscure album, "Stranger on Earth," "Morning Star" pushes her closer to the forefront of mainstream music, yet it still feels independent and unspoiled by the "big-time" record companies.

In 2005, Sidewalks Entertainment had an opportunity to interview the lovely and sweet singer when she was promoting "The Inner Beauty Movement." The interview can be found here at SidewalksTV.com/webclips/l/lina.html.

Currently, Lina is selling her “Morning Star” independently on-line. Information can be found on her MySpace page.