Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

My first encounter with the ginger mop headed Matt Papa was when we were both stuck in a lift in a hotel in Nashville! He was a good companion in those circumstances and a more pleasant fellow would be difficult to find. Musically that is matched on his debut worship CD where he presents a collection of mainly self-penned pop rock worship gems, well crafted and nicely produced. It's a very pleasant listen and Papa convinces both as a singer and a guitarist and reminds me a little of Lincoln Brewster especially when he rocks out as he does most effectively on my favourite track "Your Love". Another highlight is the piano-based pop tune "Into Your Arms" which has a gorgeous catchy melody. Like Brewster, Papa does a good turn interpreting other people's songs and on this album he does pretty decent versions of "Dancing Generation" and "In Christ Alone" but the 23 year old is most convincing on his own Scripture inspired songs.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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