Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

I originally met Javen Campbell back in April 2001 for a chat about this album so it's been some time coming, mainly delayed because it was originally recorded for the now defunct Pamplin group of labels. Glad to see that the album was rescued and now available in the UK because Javen is a fine singer and songwriter and this album is an excellent introduction to his poppy R&B style. Gifted with a very special gospel voice which glides across the different styles displayed here, his self-titled debut slips comfortably from contemporary urban sounds ("I Can Only Do", "Shout") through pop ("Never Give Up On Love", "Learning How To Love") to soulful ballads ("I'll Be Okay", "Without You"). It's actually on the slower numbers that Javen excels, particularly on "Back In The Place" which is an incredible song. Andrae Crouch produces some tracks and has had a strong influence on Javen's ministry and Guardian guitar man Tony Palacios also contributes, making this debut album a splendidly soulful affair.

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