Pat Barrett has long been an underdog in Christian music, yet with “I’ve Got A Fire” — his fourth studio endeavor — the Atlanta native might finally get his due. Aptly titled, the compelling set feels like a fresh fire has been lit inside Barrett, reigniting the sheer joy of his relationship with Jesus.
For more than a decade, Barrett has quietly been working behind the scenes, writing mammoth hits for a plethora of notable acts, including Chris Tomlin, Phil Wickham, Elevation Worship and Brandon Lake, among others. In 2018, he came into his own as an artist, releasing his eponymous debut. His timeless, congregational-friendly originals continue to be staples in Sunday morning sets.
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With a catalog full of ballads, it wasn’t until 2023’s “Shelter” that Barrett began experimenting with more playful melodies, most evident on selections like “Every Good Thing” and popular radio offering “Beautiful Life.” If “Shelter” showcases the singer-songwriter taking a slight detour, however, “I’ve Got A Fire” finds Barrett blazing a bright new trail — one that reveals newfound confidence and contagious optimism.
His most pop-centric project to date, “I’ve Got A Fire” is colored by dance-worthy melodies and energetic anthems. That’s not to say Barrett has watered down his signature lyrics. His work remains poetically thoughtful and theologically sound; but, sonically, it’s more vibrant and free than anything he’s previously unveiled as a solo artist.
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The title track serves as the album’s undeniable centerpiece; and its accompanying music video, featuring his endearing 74-year-old dad, absolutely makes the song the surefire hit it is. An extended cut of the record even adds a live version from a recent hometown tour stop where Barrett’s father joined him on stage.
Upbeat opener “All This In A Name” and the enthusiastic “Count On You” continue to fan the combustible flame Barrett sparks across the project’s 13 tracks. Meanwhile, obvious church selections like “Praise The Lord Forever” soften the edges, fitting in seamlessly like perfect puzzle pieces among more spirited faire.
Although his zest is the headline of “I’ve Got A Fire,” listeners shouldn’t sleep on Barrett’s sublime deep cuts. In fact, throughout his career, some of his best moments have been disguised as the ones that never made the radio charts or the Sunday morning setlist. Case in point, crown jewel “Hard Part Of A Dream” showcases a vulnerable piano-vocal as Barrett candidly grapples with the inherent risks that accompany chasing your heart’s desire, putting wind in the sails of anyone who’s ever stepped out in faith.
Part prayer, part confession, “The Wrestle” unfolds like a lyrical skirmish as the “Build My Life” singer admits he has more questions than answers. Conversely, he readily submits to surrender on “Trust,” which finds its roots in Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.”
Elsewhere, he puts his own stamp on Elevation Worship’s “Always On Time” and offers an exquisite moment of repentance on benediction “My Father’s Business,” where he cuts to the heart of Christian consumerism, singing: “God, forgive us for the times we called it praise, but it was show business. The times we used Your name, but You were not in it. Holy Spirit, lead us back to You.”
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Barrett surrounds himself with equally gifted lyricists on “I’ve Got A Fire,” with co-writing credits that boast Wickham, Benjamin William Hastings, Steven Furtick, Leeland Mooring and David Leonard. Perhaps when you’re a masterful songwriter yourself, it’s easier to spot that skill in other like-minded individuals.
If Wickham and Lake are the current torchbearers of modern worship, stewarding a baton passed down from luminaries like Chris Tomlin and Matt Redman, Barrett is next in line. He’s always had the lyrical chops, but his recent time on the road with Lake, coupled with his new material, proves he also harnesses the stage presence of a budding star. Furthermore, “I’ve Got A Fire” affirms Barrett possesses the assertiveness of an entertainer, the honesty of a psalmist and the heart of a servant — a rare combination that leads to widespread impact and the makings of a legacy artist.
