Tonya Boyd-Cannon upped her recognition when she ranked in the top 20 of NBC’s popular singing competition program, The Voice. The Mississippi-born, New Orleans-raised vocalist brings a lot of passion to Muzic Is Life, offered with a myriad of musical backdrops. On “No Approval,” a tune that lyrically sends a positive message and on which Boyd-Cannon is joined by rapper Phat Word, programming is fully depended upon. Later in the album, on “Wish You Well,” she brings in an entire band, including trumpeter and co-writer Andrew Baham and pianist David Torkanowsky. In both cases, Boyd-Cannon displays a certain sophistication and maturity.

Boyd-Cannon pens or co-pens all of the material on the album. The range of styles she chooses to present—contemporary rhythm and blues, rap, pop, jazz and even gospel—doesn’t necessarily make for a comprehensive album, though in this age of single cut downloading that may not be a problem.

The vocalist’s strengths are obvious on Muzic Is Life. Her songwriting offers something to think about, as with the quiet “Call It Jazz.” It boasts some local references though not overtly as she slips in Louis Armstrong and second lining. And, as mentioned, positive messages also abound. A strong voice and an ear for good accompaniment take Boyd-Cannon where she wants to go. Just where that will be in the future is difficult to predict.