Joann Rosario

Joyous Salvation
Sony BMG Recording

The album art of Joann Rosario’s “Joyous Salvation” left me expecting an out-and-out fiesta of a record. And while the Latin influence of her Puerto Rican roots is certainly present, it is understated, blended into the creamy base of a musical dish much larger in scope and better for it. She changes gears into Spanish only occasionally and very naturally, but “Joyous Salvation” is first and foremost a power-packed gospel record, blasting off with “Restore to Me,” a great song that kicks off a great piece of work.