Javen – Keeping the Faith

Javen
Keeping the Faith
Melrose Music (Universal)
(release date: August 25, 2009)
www.javenonline.com

Javen first appeared on TBGB’s radar screen last fall when his single, “Keeping the Faith,” was included on a new artist sampler. The minty fresh music of the Bahamian-born, LA-based Javen reflects the Christian/gospel mix for which west coast artists have been known since the days of Hawkins. Like the Hawkins Family of the Seventies, Javen has a sound made-to-order for young Christians searching for a musical identity of their own.

On Keeping the Faith (the album), Javen proves that the title track is no accident. He sings with complete confidence in his material, which is built on tantalizingly sweet melodies and praise and worship lyrics with cross-chart potential. The songs on the CD borrow heavily from Christian power pop and the “rhythm and praise” of artists such as Israel Houghton and Deitrick Haddon, both of whom contribute vocals to the project.

The title track and current hit single is at once laid-back and finger-popping, its lyrics an encouragement during times of trouble. A trance beat opens “With All My Life.” “Count It All Joy” has the spritely hit record sound of “Keeping the Faith.” “Not Gonna Worry” brings the dance club back into the musical mix, which is appropriate given the song’s lyrical focus on enjoying each moment with the Lord.

Thus endowed with fresh, approachable material, and with a career that includes acting for stage, television and movies, Javen is poised to become an inspirational star and role model for youth and the young at heart.

Four of Five Stars