STYLE: Roots/Acoustic RATING OUR PRODUCT CODE: 9354-9060 LABEL: Independent FORMAT: CD Album RRP: £12.00
Reviewed by Keith Singleton
Devonshire-based John describes some of the songs on this album as being aimed at congregational worship, which is fine, and some, if not all, of the songs would indeed fit that scenario well. He also states that it was recorded in an office using an average PC (and provides liner photos to prove it!), even using live instruments, including drums which is a bit of a novelty, and I have to say I was impressed with the quality of the recording. It just goes to show there is no excuse for making a poor quality recording nowadays. John has a lovely voice with more than a passing resemblance to Tim Hughes and all of the songs are mercifully cliché-free. The lyrics are only provided for four of the 10 songs (I'm assuming this is to keep the printing costs down) which is a little disappointing, although all the lyrics and acetate masters are available on the label’s website. However, I have to wonder about the target audience. Whilst this is a fine album on its own, the present market for worship music resembles a paddy field after a particularly wet season and I can't imagine an album of this nature selling beyond the circle of people who encounter John’s ministry live. This is a shame as it is a really good album, especially as a first foray into worship music, (John is also the frontman for Devon rockers Escapade). On the basis of this album, I hope John somehow reaches a wider audience.
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