What would happen if you combined the writing talents of Todd Agnew and the musicianship of Third Day for a one-of-a-kind collaborative effort? You would end up with the latest release from Australian-bred artist Lucas Parry. Currently residing in the state of New Jersey, his sophomore effort Made to Fly is nothing short of a unique journey into the true passion and soul of an artist who is after God's own heart. He carries his own tune and breaks away from the norm of the typical style of modern worship as elements of contemporary, pop, rock, and even funk all play a vital role on this project.

Each song is filled with uplifting lyrics and oustanding arrangements that flow together smoothly. Songs like "Such a Love" and "Thousand Words" contain excellent electric guitar riffs blended together with an arena rock sound that is reminiscent of bands like Fono and PFR. Another musical entry worthy of acknowledgement is the pop/rock feel of "Revive Me," which not only contains a melodic violin intro, but invokes a man's plea for God to send forth a revival surging through his soul. The mood of the album gets toned down for the passionate and humble "Take Me Home" with lyrics crying out to God by saying "Would You forgive me for my failings? I'm just a man who doesn't know just what to say, take me home."

Adult contemporary elements provide the melody for the thought-provoking "Beautiful" and the piano driven "Photograph," a song that has Lucas Parry expressing his feelings of a past love that he hopes to eventually see again someday in Heaven. Amongst all the passionate worship and emotion shown throughout the core of Made to Fly, Lucas also knows how to have fun with his music as shown in the upbeat, funk vibe of "Just Like Him," which has the artist making his declaration of faith in the One True God.

The fact that the entire album is self-produced is a surprising factor in the overall professionalism and sound quality found throughout. Though it clocks in at just under 40 minutes, an album like Made to Fly is reason to believe that the modern worship movement has barely even scratched the surface. Lucas Parry is the ideal artist for fans of musicians like Chris Tomlin, Todd Agnew, and just about any other worship artist making a strong impact in the CCM environment.

- Review date: 9/24/05, written by Paul Portell