When a band releases their debut album, many of the songs on it aren't as mature as some of the ones that follow on succeeding releases, and the band's full musical talent isn't always revealed. This can clearly be seen on Ace Troubleshooter's independent debut album, Back In The Shootin' Match.

Since the album was released when most of the members were teenagers, many of the songs sound hyperactive and immature. Songs like "Ravioli" raise questions in the listener's mind as why a band like Ace Troubleshooter would write a song about pasta. Another example is the first track entitled "Chilly MN," in which the guys basically boast about their home state of Minnesota and while ripping Florida to pieces. Lines such as "Florida is probably my least favorite place in the world..." gets their point across.

However, some positive and spiritually-minded songs such as "I Love Jesus" and "Arms of Love" have great messages and Ace's cover of "Jesus, Lover of My Soul," which is titled "JLMS," is very interesting in that it starts pretty slow, but in a couple of seconds, explodes into Ace's signature sound, picking up the pace.

Die-hard fans of Ace Troubleshooter would probably love this album, but for those who have never heard of them, they should stick to listening to Ace's later releases with Tooth & Nail Records.

Review date: 6/28/08, written by Brett Wanamaker for Jesusfreakhideout.com