Dallas Morning News Article (January 25, 1997)

Heavenly Place, by Jaci Velasquez (Myrrh, 40 minutes) Ms. Velasquez was all of 16 when she recorded this delightful Latin-tinged pop album that has already yielded three No. 1 singles in the contemporary Christian adult chart. Ms. Velasquez, now 17, has a voice that's as catchy and accessible as Gloria Estefan's, with depth and power that recalls Whitney Houston's. Top songwriters, including Chris Eaton, and producer Mark Heimermann provided the perfect blend of balladry and dance-pop, full of engaging Christian messages. "If This World" a burst of frothy, upbeat pop, remains fresh after the 10th listen, and "Flower in the Rain" demonstrates a vocal interpretation beyond Ms. Velasquez's years. "Baptize Me" -- musically, at least -- could have been performed by Madonna. And the title cut "Un Lugar Celestal (A Heavenly Place)," is as listenable as any Latin-flavored pop ballad released during the past year. Mr. Heimermann, a solid veteran who has produced dc Talk and Steven Curtis Chapman, among others, has crafted a polished yet understated sound that complements, rather than clouds, Ms. Velasquez's expressive voice. -- C.A.