A Must-Have Debut
Posted June 19, 2015
By CaitlinLassiter_NRT, Staff Reviewer
Dan Bremnes might not be a familiar name to you yet, but don't let that stop you from listening to his music. The Canadian artist met the Christian music community with a rare authenticity and talent when his first self-titled EP made a mark on the music scene earlier this year, spawning the hit single "Beautiful" and leading to an opening spot on Crowder's Neon Steeple Tour. Following the EP, which featured six honest songs and introduced us to his stellar songwriting, Bremnes is back to finish the full album. Where The Light Is takes fans through Dan's story of loss and restoration, speaking hope with every line.
Although every song included boasts incredible lyrics and soaring vocals, the strongest moment of all is found as the album opens with the deeply autobiographical title track. "God, come quickly / only You can save me / will You lead me where the light is?" the song cries out.
Previously successful single "Beautiful" follows suit with a powerful beat and lyrics of redemption. Both folk-influenced "Heart On Fire" and acoustic-styled "Born Again" are driven by strong drum tones and showcase catchy melodies.
"Even If" is the only song on the EP that didn't make it to the full-length project. Instead, it's replaced here by a more worshipful moment, "In His Hands," where the bridge tells Dan's story in a beautiful way: "from the moment when my mother died / to the first breath of my baby boy I felt God / oh, He was with me then / through the heartache and in the joy."
"Wide Open" and "Faith Is" continue the pattern of pop beats and have a theme of being open to God's leading - wherever or whatever that may be. "I Am Sure" is another strong addition to the album, featuring bold words of faith and confidence in Christ. A personal favorite, "Over" speaks of the forgiveness and grace that washes away our past when we give our lives to God. "At Your Feet (Surrender)" ends the album with a moment of intimate yet powerful worship.
Closing Thoughts:
Where The Light Is definitely doesn't have the feel of a debut album. From start to finish, this project presents effortless talent and a smooth set of skills like that of a much more seasoned artist. This is impressive to say the least, and Dan really blew away all the first-time stereotypes when making this record. It's an album that's sure to be on repeat for quite a while, and it's also an album I'd be quick to name a must-have. If the beginning is this good, I can't wait to see what comes next from Dan Bremnes.
Song To Download Now:
"Where The Light Is" (Get it on iTunes here.)
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