Songs apologize for mistakes and pledge romantic devotion (“I Will Be”), refuse to let naysayers bury a relationship (“Whatever It Takes”) and tell a boyfriend playing at love that he can stage his show for someone else (“Take a Bow”). A woman reluctant to make herself emotionally vulnerable decides a new beau is worth the risk on “Bleeding Love.” Stinging from a painful breakup, Lewis is convinced she will get “Better in Time.” Along those lines, “I’m You” tells the person in the mirror that it’s time to be strong and move on. Throughout “Here I Am” she promises to comfort and support a friend, using language that could be coming from our heavenly Father. More blatantly spiritual, “Footprints in the Sand” is based on the popular poem about the Lord carrying us during crippling times.
Vague references to making love (“Angel”) and waking up beside a partner (“Yesterday”) lack marital context. While not explicitly sexual, “Forgive Me” finds an attached woman pursuing a forbidden rendezvous.
Imagine Jordin Sparks with Mariah Carey’s vocal trills. Leona Lewis has a great voice. With a few minor exceptions, her lyrics are just as solid.
