Pastor David Daniel & The People’s Christian Fellowship Choir “Praise Comes First”
Authentic Media
If anyone were to say that UK gospel music isn’t moving forward then they must be in hibernation. This latest addition comes from yet another key London Church headed up by none-other than David Daniel who is a pivotal figure in UK gospel music going back to the 80s.
The choir itself was founded back in 1991 and throughout the years they built towards the milestone of recording an official live CD of which “Praise Come First” is a result of that.
There is a real eclectic mix of sounds that all hover round the central gospel music point. You’ve got the “African Medley” filled with strong rhythms and sounds from West Africa and then hopping across the Atlantic over to Jamaica for a real dub-plate number “Let It Be”.
The standard Praise & Worship numbers show up and here you really appreciate the excellence and vocal arrangements of the Choir. Check out “Once For All” where Pastor David Daniel unleashes a sweet duet alongside lead vocalist Ruth Lynch. She also takes leads on “Speak To Me” and the heart-stopping “Holy is the Lord” where Ruth is also joined by her sisters Tula and Vernetta.
The whole album is made up of original material but the choir do throw in a favourite chorale number “How Great Thou Art” done in this whole crescendo fashion, truly inspiring.
Other guest appearances come through from the best of best UK vocalists: Tony Momrelle (Seven) “This is My Desire”, Priscillia Jones-Campbell “Olam”, Hildia Campbell “New Thing Now” and Lawrence Johnson “This is Your House” closing out a well-crafted musical journey.
Only half way through the year and the UK scene has already thrown out three very strong and extremely consistent Church gospel recordings - IDMC, Wayne Malcolm and this album. I feel for the judges on any UK gospel awards panel that has to pick a winner from those contenders!
By DJ El Niño © July 2004