Nothing New, but Well-Rounded
Posted March 31, 2014
By SarahFine_NRT, Staff Reviewer
Jason Bare is no stranger to the world of music. With his third and latest effort, Love Is Alive, the singer, songwriter and longtime worship leader, returns to offer his eclectic spin on the modern anthems shaping the way the church praises God.
"God Of All" opens the album with praise that invokes the masses, while "More Than Enough" shifts gears a bit and goes back to his roots as a singer/songwriter. It brings to mind the likes of artists such as Brandon Heath, who offer nothing new melodically, yet still somehow create a symphony of sounds that is all their own.
Songs like "When I'm Found in You," "Bigger" and "Miracle Maker" also follow the same niche, setting elegantly edifying lyrics against the richer, less complex sounds of front porch jam sessions with a few guitars and voices intermingling.
"Lamb Of God" offers a taste of diversity, while still staying in the vein of praise. It's a tender ballad that is perfect for softer moments of reflection.
While I applaud his attempt at musical creativity, the title track "Love Is Alive" falls victim to being the weakest inclusion, offering a boldly Latin pop vibe that feels sorely out of place out of place with the rest of the project.
Don't think Bare's attempts as crafting a variety of sounds is a loss, however. A song such as "Light Of Your Love" passes the test with flying colors. Modern pop infusion mixes his low-key sound, creating something that feels big, while still remaining small enough to sound intimate: "Set our hearts on fire for what You desire / So all the world would see the light of Your love."
Closing Thoughts:
Love Is Alive may not be breaking any new ground, but it's hard to deny that there is genuine sweetness to this album. Jason's vocals are raw, and give you a clear picture of this passionate worshipers heart. In an industry where worship is becoming more and more produced, that is rare, and worth noting. This is a well rounded group of songs that set the stage perfectly for Sunday morning praise.
Song To Download Now:
"Light Of Your Love" (Get it on iTunes here.)
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