Brasil Nativo
This album from bilingual (at least) singer Lani Hall is a pleasant, if  sometimes underwhelming, listen; this is mostly due to the strength of Hall's voice,  which has a power and expressiveness that's sometimes too much for the songs she's  singing. Exceptions include the title track, where Hall's singing is backed up by strong  rhythmic and harmonic accompaniment. However, the best song is probably "Mas  Que Nada." Here Hall pulls out all the stops, and the result is impressive. There are  several duets, which are nicely done, and the music is clear and present without ever  becoming intrusive. One wishes, though, that it pushed Hall a little harder; one senses  some untapped potential here. --Genevieve Williams