Sean Bennett, Freelance Writer

Papa San - Sean Bennett Photo

It was if he never left in the first place. Last Friday, when veteran gospel minister Papa San came home to launch his album 'Higher Heights' at the Fellowship Tabernacle Church, 2 Fairfield Avenue, Kingston, a capacity crowd was almost too predictable. But to have that crowd overflow into the streets was unbelievable.

When asked why he chose Jamaica for the launch. The minister simply stated, "No whe no better than yard". And even though it began a little behind its scheduled start of 8 p.m., the launch was indeed an enjoyable event.

Omari was the first of the slated acts onstage and set a mood of thanksgiving with his song Help. Upcoming gospel ministers Ryan Berry and Kerron Ennis continued this trend with their songs I will Praise you Lord and God is by Our Side respectively. It was Carlene Davis, however, who changed the mood and led the audience into an atmosphere of worship. She did songs such as Alpha & Omega and To Worship You (I live), after which Goddy Goddy gave a very spirited performance.

During the launch, San gave thanks to God, his mother, sister and fans for being supportive of him, and while onstage he was given a surprise visit from his wife who he thought would not be able to make it.

Though it seemed impossible, he raised the energy level in the venue when he went into old and new hits such as Pop Style, Jesus I Love You, Hell Bruk Loose, Smile Again, Shining Star.

San literally had everyone jumping, skipping and singing along with him.