By: Kevan Breitinger
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Jared Anderson
Where Faith Begins
Integrity Music
Praise & Worship
03-04-2008
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SCORE
87%
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You may not immediately recognize the name of Jared Anderson, but he’s a longtime member of the Desperation Band, responsible for classics like “Rescue” and “Amazed.” He’s also been a staff member of New Life Church in Colorado Springs since 2001, through the scandal of 2006 and the horrific shootings a year later. So to title his sophomore album Where Faith Comes From is a particularly bold move, and one that peaked my interest, although I was not a fan of his debut, 2006’s Where To Begin.
The thick guitar riffs, popping bass line, and tight percussion of opener “Promises” reassure me immediately that Anderson has moved away from his earlier pop leanings. “Promises,” with its straightforward vocal celebrating the promises of God, is straight-up rock worship from the get go. The hooky chorus of “All I Want,” with its edgy guitars and percolating rhythms, is more of the same, while “Glorified” pleads for the presence of God through thick piano chords. The melodic “Call To Me” brings to mind the Desperation Band with its heartfelt lyrics of unashamed need.
I very much enjoyed the lustrous “Ready Now,” a quiet ballad featuring glimmering guitar that moves into a big, splashy chorus highlighting the track’s lyrical passion for God. Pop rocker “Finding You” is more reminiscent of Anderson’s debut. Piano ballad “This Is Life” is especially moving considering Anderson’s recent history. It’s a strong argument for faith, reminding us that we are promised God’s presence just as much as we are promised trials. Anderson then moves into a 3 track line-up of richly ambient tracks, each one appealing. The mid-tempo “Hiding Place” is accented by throbbing strings and is deeply worshipful, while closing ballad “Pleasing To You” comes across as a heartfelt prayer. Don’t miss the sparkling acoustic bonus track “The Difference,” quietly humble and humming with energy. This is the project that really brings Jared Anderson out on his own.
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