For Nikki Leonti, second chance is better than ever!
cartwrightg | Tennessee | 08/21/2001
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Self-titled CDs are typical of the first release from an artist. Why then this self-titled release from someone who has already experienced success with a number one and three top five singles on contemporary Christian radio?"Nikki Leonti" is the second CD from a young lady who found immediate success with her first release, "Shelter Me," in 1998, at the age of 17. But, this new release is a new beginning for Leonti, who found out early that with success comes pitfalls - particularly for a Christian artist.Leonti's success was followed by personal pain - she became pregnant in the fall of 1999 and experienced the embarrassment, humiliation, and difficult circumstances that unmarried young woman can face. As an advocate for Christian values, performing in front of thousands of people, it was devastating.In the 20 months since that time, Leonti has journeyed through the humiliation, depression, and despair to profound understanding of the extent of God's love and forgiveness. "I thought I knew what God's love was," she said recently, "but it took this situation to show me that, up to that point, I had only scratched the surface."This new release is a rebirth of sorts and it carries a message - of God's grace, forgiveness, and redemption. "My story is the album," Leonti reflects. "The songs that I wrote and the songs that I chose all have to do with what I've learned over the past year and a half."Musically, this CD is solid. I encourage young people try it out. Brittany, Christina, et. al., of the secular music world have nothing on the music of this pretty and talented 20-year old. And, Leonti co-wrote six of the songs.The title track, "I Need You," is a bouncy, energetic number about God being our only need. It could easily be the title track. The music and sound of "The Direction Of You" have [to me] a Beatle's feel - yes, I said the Beatles. Ok, so who under 50 hasn't been influenced by the lads from Liverpool?!The vocals and message of "Love Lives On" is powerful. "Love Is All I Need" is as good as anything on Christian radio today."Letting Go" and "You Won't Leave" can compete musically with anything the aforementioned teen idols have to offer.Give Nikki Leonti a listen. God has given her a second chance. That is something we all need along life's way. Great music! An inspiring story!"
Nikki Leonti - one of Us
cartwrightg | 04/28/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Although I'm not a teen, I love this kind of pop/hip hop music and I know that my 21 yr. old daughter loves it too. The message Nikki shares with her music is really right on. Her upbeat contemporary style is just what the new generation needs to not be turned off by "Christian" music. There are some slow ballads to balance out this CD which makes this one of my favorites. I highly recommend this for anyone who loves the pop/hip hop type of music that a lot of teens and young adults are into. Even some old folks, like me, dig on this music!"
Another Great CD from Nikki
James F. Gelsleichter | North East Pa USA | 07/01/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Released on 9/11, her self-titled CD sort of got drowned out by the events of the time. It was good to hear Nikki recording again, considering all the events in her own life, too. Hey, we all screw up at times, but Jesus forgives and forgets. All the songs are much more peppier the 2nd time around (and just as great too). My favorite is the 1st one "I Need You". "Letting Go" was a top hit on the CCM charts. I would recommend this CD if you like her CD "Shelter Me". Looking forward to her 3rd CD."
Heartwarming
Susan Wilson | Ohio | 10/13/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This young lady never ceases to amaze me with her incredible talent!
SO many moving & soul searching songs on this CD........Just simply incredible. You WILL be blessed!"
Inspiring Music by Strong Vocalist
Lucie | USA | 10/08/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Nikki Leonti is a strong vocalist. Her voice is beautiful and her music inspiring. Every song comes out of her life, especially the six she co-wrote. Several musical styles are evident in this album including pop, hip-hop, and gospel. She blurs the line between these styles at times, creating a great musical effect. There are few contemporary Christian singers like her today. I certainly hope her musical career isn't over, especially since it's been four years since this CD was released. My only complaint is ten songs is too short for a CD, in my opinion. Two more would have been nice. Despite that, she has ten exceptional songs on this album. (4.5 stars). Now I'd like to see her branch out and bring more originality to her music because her music so far isn't a lot different than other female Christian artists of today. That certainly isn't bad, but something different and original would be awesome."