Reviewed by Brian A McAdie

This, Nia's fifth album, is produced in the UK to mark the 150th anniversary of the founding of the YMCA next year. 'Hungry Hearts' features Nia backed by Ten Sing choirs from around the country and appears to be aimed at a young teens audience with tracks like "You Don't Have To Be A Bad Girl (To Have A Good Time)" and Randy Stonehill's "Shut De Do'". Puzzlingly, although the album is credited to Nia, three tracks feature lead vocals by Paul Field, Bernie Armstrong and Annie McCaig which upsets the continuity. The album features a variety of singing styles, a couple of which are too twee for my taste ("Saviour" and "If Only"), and works best when Nia adopts a softer, more soulful approach to complement the choral backing. 'Hungry Hearts' is a grower and will be bought in quantity by concert goers, particularly those touched by the Holy Spirit.

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