Faith (Warner, 1998)

The title of Faith Hill's latest may relate to more than her first name. "Faith" best describes how the singer feels these days especially regarding love. Hill's strength remains her voice, indicative from the get go of the first single "This Kiss" through "Love Ain't Like That" and the closing "Somebody Stand By Me," a gospel-oriented song of strength co-written by Sheryl Crow.

The problem is the disc contains only a half-album's worth of quality material due to weak lyrics and songs never taking off. "Just to Hear You Say That You Love Me," her duet with hubby Tim McGraw, is guilty on both counts. "It's Your Love" it ain't. "Let Me Let Go" with a big helping backing vocals from Vince Gill works far better."The Hard Way" has a thumping drum beat and is devoid of personality. After awhile, sameness sets in as you know Hill will turn it on vocally.

Hill keeps the faith to what has got her where she is. Too bad the songs don't match Hill's vocal talents in a radio-friendly disc far too safe.