Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

Mike Johnson was once an original member of the Mike Bloomfield Blues Band and then after his conversion became a pioneer of Jesus music. Having never visited the UK though, he wasn't well known here. This 1973 effort is probably Mike's greatest album and highlights the versatility of his songwriting from the groovy rock of the Dylanesque "On To L.A." with its passionate rapid fire lyrics and fiery guitar work, to the satirical "Your Health Food Won't Get You Into Heaven" which sounds like the sort of song Randy Stonehill might have written. Then there's the country rag of the hilarious "Something's Goin' On" complete with kazoo and a closing instrumental cover of jazz organ giant Jimmy Smith's "Mellow Mood". In these days of highly formatted and over polished Christian music, 'Velvet Prince' sounds positively adventurous. A strong message and music which is difficult to pigeonhole, this is a delight and although Johnson passed away last year, his refusal to be squeezed into a rigid formula makes this a highly enjoyable album 41 years on.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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