Just Getting Started
Posted March 01, 2017
By CaitlinLassiter_NRT, Staff Reviewer
For worship leader Jason Bare, music is much more than just a song. The singer/songwriter has dedicated much of his life to leading crowds in genuine, heartfelt worship that always puts the focus on Christ. Now advancing his career in the Christian music industry, Jason has shared the stage with artists such as Big Daddy Weave, Natalie Grant, Switchfoot and more as his previous releases made waves at radio and with fans.
Early in 2016, Jason signed a deal with Vital Records Group/Daywind Publishing to release two projects. The first of those, Christmas EP Night Of Wonder, was available in December and proved that Jason's artistry is growing abundantly with each new release. The second of those projects, the full-length record Fearless, releases this week, featuring several guest appearances and showcasing more of the artist development that establishes Jason as a greatly underrated artist in the contemporary worship genre.
High-energy "Following You" opens the album and gives listeners a perfect example of Bare's sonic style: praise and pop meeting in a well-crafted way that fits both AC radio and congregational worship. In the same vein, title track "Fearless" follows with its upbeat, Scripture-saturated message of praise for the confidence we have through Christ because of who He is. Powerful "Bring Down The Heavens" is an invitation and longing for the Spirit of Christ to abide, lyrically similar to "Miracles Happen Here," which calls on God to show up and do impossible things.
Featuring Amy Perry of Selah, slower acoustic track "You Are" is a definite highlight on the album as Jason and Amy's vocals work together flawlessly to remind listeners of who He says we are. The first radio single from the album, "On This I Stand," comes next and proves to be yet another strong moment of lively praise for the firm foundation we have: "On this I stand / You are the everlasting, never-ending, Holy, great I Am / on this I stand." "Wildfire (feat. Anna Byrd)" keeps the tempo up as the two voices mesh well to sing in response to the wild and fierce love of Jesus.
On the more worshipful side of the album, "Mighty Redeemer" is a bold declaration of the redemption Christ has in store: "No fear or failure is greater than Your promise that You will make things right / all things will reveal Your glory." Another of my favorite standout moments, "In The Silence," features American Idol alumni Jeremy Rosado's smooth, soulful vocals in addition to deep lyrics of faith even in the hard places of life: "You are always good / You are always true / oh, I worship You." Featuring Fearless Tour guest artists Jake & Laura, "King Of Forever" continues to proclaim the unchanging character of Jesus, much like piano-led "Great Is Your Name." Bringing things back up-tempo, the album comes to a close with "Only Getting Started" as Jason sings of the endless power and greatness of our God.
The Bottom Line: If you're a fan of worship music (and even if you're not!), Fearless is an album you need to hear. While Jason Bare likely isn't a super familiar name to you yet, this album is genuine, quality music where worship and praise meet AC and pop, creating songs that any listener can appreciate. With Bare's raw and sincere vocals carrying each track, the whole album feels personal as you can hear his passion for leading people into the presence of God in every line. Fearless displays the worshipper's heart and talent, with his ever-evolving sound and continually-growing artistry proving that Jason is just getting started.
Song To Download Now:
"On This I Stand" (Get it on iTunes here.)
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