Review

Looking back at 2006, it really has been a breakout year for many young worship artists. In addition to established artist like Hillsong United and Desperation Band, other up and coming worship writers and leaders have emerged. Most notably, Leeland Moring, Phil Wickham and Jason Morant. In this company of relative "newbies" are others who deserve a mention, including 24 year old Matt Papa.

Matt's new CD "You Are Good" is an album of 13 studio tracks, most of them original compositions. Matt may only be 24 years old but judging from his songwriting he is a much older soul. Even though he has a great voice, and appears to be an accomplished musician, Matt's real strength lies in his songwriting. Like his peers, Leeland Moring and Jason Morant, Matt Papa approaches worship songwriting with fresh ears. But where Morant or Leeland have a gift for gently pushing the envelope of congregational music, Matt stays on the safe side by writing very accessible songs. Lyrically, Matt keeps it simple as well, by carefully crafting common worship phrases and thoughts into meaningful, cohesive verse. But make no mistake - there is no cutting and pasting clichés on this CD.

Overall, I really like "You Are Good". I don't think that it's going on my "Best Worship CDs Ever" list, but I sure enjoy listening to it for now. The CD has a young, fresh feel while steering away from a "youthy" sound and pie-eyed lyrics. I think that we can look forward to hearing what Matt Papa will bring the worshipping church in the future as his talents continue to develop. In the meantime we can all enjoy "You Are Good".

Review by Jeremy Dunn