A Solid Effort From a Songwriting Veteran
Posted March 30, 2015
By ChristopherThiessen_NRT, Staff Reviewer
Jared Anderson has definitely been one of worship music’s top writers over the last few years ( with credits including "Great I Am" and "The King Is Coming"). With Where I Am Right Now, he brings us his first release with Centricity Music, who seems to have had a consistent winning streak as of late. This offering brings listeners a short 5-song look at Anderson’s diverse ability to write God-glorifying songs that will definitely have listeners wanting a full length album.
Production wizard Seth Mosley oversaw Where I Am Right Now, bringing his hit-creating abilities to songs like the title track, which Anderson describes as "a direct response to the popular condition called FOMO: Fear Of Missing Out." This song was definitely created for radio play, to the point of being a little bit too cliché. However, the strong message of knowing that God has called us to follow Him and not worry about the promises the world offers shines through.
Listeners will recognize the worshipful "Almighty," co-written with Chris Tomlin and Ed Cash, which made an appearance on Tomlin’s latest album Love Ran Red. "Overboard" is an anthem of joyous praise, resembling a mix of Newsboys circa 2006 and Walk the Moon. It declares that we will go out in faith and follow God with everything in us.
"Forgiven" is a mid-tempo song about the forgiveness of God in His grace. This middle track I found to be rather formulaic and safe while trying to relay what is really a great message. On the other side of the spectrum is the closing song "Sweet Salvation." Anderson went out with my favorite song of the EP, which is performed… wait for it… completely a cappella. The song builds perfectly with harmonies, snaps, percussion and all-around smooth doo-wop style as it refreshes my soul with every listen.
Closing Thoughts:
Jared Anderson is definitely a solid worship music writer, and I enjoy worshiping along with his music. This EP is a little odd to me as it has points of innovation and then points of maintaining status quo. As a whole though, it is an enjoyable project and its songs, particularly the closer, will be on repeat for me throughout the year.
Song to Download Now:
"Sweet Salvation"
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