Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

On the international church scene, John Francis has a major reputation as a church leader and author. He founded Ruach, now one of the biggest churches in Britain and his TV programmes are seen around the world. As a musician he founded The Inspirational Choir in the early '80s and helped to pioneer a new wave of British gospel music. I had high hopes when putting the white label into my player since I'd enjoyed John's music in the past. However the results were not as attention-grabbing as I'd hoped. At first listen, 'Welcome In This Place' sounded exactly like a Ron Kenoly album from the early '90s. It's an easy listening gospel style with smooth production, intricate vocal harmonies and to be honest, well crafted songs. The actual album was recorded six years ago though who knows why it's taken so long to escape into the light of day. Songs like "Sing Unto The Lord" and "The Lion Of Judah" hit that groove where choir and Francis interact vocally, horns parp and everything is in place but I'm still waiting to be convinced. However there are moments when this album rises to sublime heights. "Afflicted" is one very special moment where John Francis reflects on how God uses hard times to mould us. An unusual topic for a song and very powerful. This is a good album and if you're looking for gospel worship that isn't too funky, then you'll enjoy this. If you want something funky then check out the two bonus studio tracks that rework "Where Everybody Is Somebody" in more contemporary styles and one version features a great performance by Watchman. If only the rest of the album had managed to escape from sounding just a tad too generic.

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