Michael Sarver will release Layer One on Aug. 21. The EP begins a two-part project shaped by the experiences and musical influences that formed his life.
Sarver co-wrote all seven songs. The project moves through pop, gospel, R&B and worship without settling into one sound. Its companion EP, Layer Two, will follow later this fall.
Michael Sarver Tells His Story in Two Layers
Sarver describes the paired releases as autobiographical.
“No life is made up of only one story; no journey is made up of only one road traveled,” Sarver said. “Layer One is the first of two ‘layers’ I’m releasing this fall, sharing through lyrics and a range of musical styles the multiple facets of my life.”
“Storms Don’t Bother Me” opens the EP with an upbeat pop sound. Sarver wrote the song with Matthew Humphrey and Tyler Logan.
The lyrics confront hardship without allowing difficult circumstances to control what comes next.
“With Jesus out on the water with us, we have assurance that we will make it to the other side of our circumstance,” Sarver said. “Sometimes God’s power is more incredible to witness while we’re in the fire, knowing He is working all things for our good.”
From Pentecostal Gospel to R&B and Pop
“Fire” draws from the gospel music Sarver heard while growing up in a Pentecostal church. “Faithful” leans into the R&B side of his voice.
The EP also includes four previously released songs. “More Like You,” co-written with Sidewalk Prophets vocalist Dave Frey, explores authenticity and personal change.
“Count It All Joy” takes a brighter pop approach. “Wonderful God” offers a direct expression of worship.
“Limitless” centers on forgiveness and return. It uses the image of a prodigal coming home to a father whose love remains unchanged.
Life After ‘American Idol’
Sarver became nationally known as a Top 10 finalist during Season 8 of American Idol. Before the show, he worked in the oil fields of rural Texas.
He later released country singles and toured nationally. Sarver then stepped away from that path to serve as a worship leader in Texas.
His influences include Steven Curtis Chapman, 4Him and the Gaither Vocal Band. Their varied styles help explain the range heard across the two EPs.
“These EPs help paint the full picture of what has made me the man and artist that I am today,” Sarver said.
S&G Music Enterprises will release “Layer One” on Aug. 21, with distribution by WieRise Music. Layer Two will follow later this fall.