I could swear I heard/felt a touch of something even sacred about it as I listened, spellbound. The liner notes I read later spoke to that: Matt makes the point that all things earthly, even the most beautiful, are temporary, including his powerful music. What endures is the Truth that inspires it. It is focus like this that is picked up on by even the most distracted listen to this exuberant, authentic music. But do yourself a favor: pay attention. Closely.
The opening songs are guitar-driven, with infectious hooks, and contain a sense of urgency, especially "Lead Me On." I think it was "Unto the One" where I first lost my heart, with its pure vocals and sweet fiddle play. All of Papa's music is thoroughly Scripture-based, sometimes directly, as the powerfully moving, compelling "95," from Psalm 95. The songs are rich with an eloquence that flows directly from his level of genuine fervor; in other words, they ring true. That passion rips through the gorgeous and melodic "Who is Like You", and I find myself unable to stay seated as its rhythmic praises ring through my soul. It is followed perfectly by the brief classical piano piece, "Intro," leading into yet another stunner, the piano ballad "My Portion Forever." Intense and focused, this song was made to pour from hearts lost in deep worship. Matt Papa is, above all else, a worshipper, and his songs would fit powerfully in any Sunday morning service. That is, if the service was about worshipping God. Matt Papa portrays beautifully the essence of what I believe great Christian music is supposed to be about.
