TV Reality shows are a stepping stone to success these days, be it on the international circuit or the domestic, there have been known to launch neighborhood youngsters who have shone big time in the music industry. Leona Lewis is one such discovery of the X Factor.

She has the looks, the voice to make it as a pop diva, and with this album she’s proved that she’s got the songs, style and, yes, that mysterious X factor to really become a star.

Simon Cowell, her X-Factor mentor and the executive producer of ‘Spirit’ has also teamed up with an array of producers and songwriters to bring out an album that is reminiscent of a Whitney Houston – Mariah Carey sound.

Leona has a powerful voice and its there for all to feel and hear. Be it on her ballads or on her upbeat pieces, she manages to give a splendid performance on all counts showcasing a good pop album with much concentration on R&B/pop balladry. The dusky 22 year old beauty and talent combo from East London has a pop-rock ballad I will be originally sung by rocker chick Avril Lavigne. The Ne-yo produced I'm you is a mid-tempo cut and has got good moments. But the powerful pieces are Footprints in the Sand, Homeless and Here I Am all showing off the vocal talent that is Leona. The top line cut would be the synth-pop ballad Bleeding Love. With the legendary Clive Davis executively producing this effort too, Leona is destined for sweet success, though sadly she is no more in the limelight and is just a memory in the music industry.

Rating: ****

Reviewed by Verus Ferreira