Listening lounge: selecting fresh sounds can be hit or miss, so we did the work for you. Here, new discs and artists we're feeling this month

TAMIA

More (Elektra)--With two albums under her belt, Tamia returns pouring her soul baring vocals on such tracks as "Officially Missing You" and "Still." This disc and her turn as an opening act for the Verizon Ladies First tour--featuring Beyonce, Missy Elliott and Alicia Keys--is sure to give the Canadian powerhouse the attention she deserves.

VARIOUS ARTISTS

Women of Africa (Putumayo)--The world-music gurus at this international label brought together 11 soulful African sisters and one group to pay tribute to the Motherland. Sounds range from the traditional a cappella stylings of the Women of Mambazo to the positively pep sound of Kaissa (pictured).

TARRALYN RAMSEY

Tarralyn Ramsey (Casablanca)--The winner of VH-1's Born to Diva contest last year, Ramsey, a Florida native, has given reality TV a good name with her gospel-tinged pop album. Disc highlights are "Up Against All Odds," "Made for You" and "10,000 Thank You's."

HIL ST. SOUL

Copasetik & Cool (Shanachie)--Like Soul II Soul before them, this U.K. duo inject a British sensibility into the neosoul scene while staying true to the roots of the music as singer Hilary Mwelwa (near left) flirts with a range of sounds.

RAH DIGGA

Everything Is a Story (J)--The New Jersey homegirl does it again: From the Nina Simone-sampled "Straight Spittin,' Part 3" to the misty "You Will Neva Know," a track dedicated to her daughter, Rah Digga's deep, raspy voice still has a razor-sharp edge.

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