A man once adamant against the use of music in worship, Page Lynch is a worship artist who has since had his heart changed on the subject and now writes his own songs for God. Having received kind words from the likes of Joey Elwood, the president of Gotee Records (House of Heroes, Relient K, John Reuben), Lynch composed thirteen songs in 2008 for his debut independent album. The album is titled Remove Your Shoes, as a reminder that we are always in God's presence (therefore always standing on holy ground) and that we should always act accordingly with a heart and actions of holiness and reverence. The two-minute opener, "Not Close Enough," is quiet and somber, giving off an indie music sort of vibe. Hearing the sound of it, and seeing in Lynch's official band bio a comparison to the work of David Crowder, I expected Remove Your Shoes to have a fresh and slightly innovative sound (or at least something somewhat original). As soon as it was over and "Why Are You Content" started up, I felt my expectations may not be fully met. Lynch and the accompanying musicians play well together, and there is chemistry, but that's only half the battle. The other half is what is done with the talent and chemistry. What Lynch has done is go back in time about ten years to the late '90s, early '00s style of worship music. While it's always refreshing to hear a worship artist spring up that doesn't sound like Hillsong and Jesus Culture, it's only so long before more refreshment is needed when the sound instead takes on the form of late '90s church camp worship bands ("Dance Like David" being a great example of this). However, Lynch's lyrics are commendable, if only for them being worshipful and ministry-driven. They have a tendency to be cheesy at times too, though: "Write in me your words so I can make it, covering me in a wisdom blanket" from "Write In Me Your Words," and words that could be part of a kids' song, "Ridin' down God's highway, keepin' Satan at bay, gonna do it God's way" from "God's Highway." So despite honest and heartfelt songs like "Adonai," Page Lynch's Remove Your Shoes will most likely continue in its ambiguity. But fans of Darrell Evans and older SONICFLOOd should at least check it out.

- Review date: 8/18/10, written by Scott Fryberger of Jesusfreakhideout.com