Paul Colman is no new face in music. Having released several solo projects within the Australia underground before forming the Paul Colman Trio, Colman's latest release Let It Go marks his return to the solo life. Teaming with producers Ed Cash and Vince Emmett, Colman excels on Let It Go in ways PC3 never could. Colman takes a more artistic approach to pop/rock while focusing heavily on the worshipful side of his songwriting (ala Delirious?).

Colman took a completely new approach to writing with Let It Go. Paul wanted to literally start his life over, going as far as even secluding himself in a log cabin for a week to write and grow spiritually, forsaking all outside influence. The spiritual battles Paul waged in this time of rebirth come out in the songs on this record. "Sweet River," although upbeat with a sort of strange darkness to it, is such an example of the kinds of experiences he went through during this process. While PC3 seemed to take an all-around more simplistic approach to songwriting, Colman infuses more depth and life into his songs this time around.

Stylistically, Colman explores more folk and even southern territory that should peak the interest of Jars Of Clay and Bebo Norman fans alike. The album opens with the strong modern worship single, "Gloria (All God's Children)," and is followed by the folk sounds of "The One Thing," the pop/rock worship anthem "The One Thing," and finally the frail, transparent, and fragile "Always (Forever)." Let It Go is one of Colman's most diverse in style and theme. It's really amazing to see the growth from just his last record One, with Paul Colman Trio, to this newest venture.

Let It Go is a milestone in Paul Colman's career. The great lengths this artist has come in just the span of one album is really something to sit up and notice. I think it's safe to say that Let It Go is the best thing Paul Colman has ever laid his hands on.

- Review date: 2/27/05, written by John DiBiase