Sunway rises once again on superb CD

"I’m Here"

Sunway
(Princess Lily)

An exclamation point would be an appropriate addition to the title of this long-awaited album by mono-monickered vocalist Sunway. It’s been more than 20 years since she made her debut recording as a protege of Johnny J. Jamm, and she has come a long way since then. Anyone who saw Sunway open for Adam Lambert in 2010 could see she was ready for mainstream national play. This album should get her there.

The opening song, "Toy — Carry Her Away," is a polished power ballad that proves the point. She’s got the voice and the attitude for commercial rock. The title song — a survivor’s inspirational statement of triumph and hope — shows that she is every bit as convincing with emotionally nuanced material.

Producer Joerg Alfter’s arrangements deftly draw on elements of several genres — rock, country and mainstream pop. A line from a Fleetwood Mac hit, "Dreams," adds a familiar point of reference to an other­wise original, "Broken Heart."

Two versions of "More Than a Friend," another original, close this excellent musical collection on a celebratory note.

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"Toy – Carry Her Away"