Toronto-Based singer-songwriter The M.A.S. Project Drops Powerful New Single “Scared Fearless”
Calgary, Alberta-born, Toronto, ON-based singer-songwriter and pianist, Michael Anthony Sawers, solo artist of The M.A.S. Project, has released his latest single, “Scared Fearless” – available now.
This powerful and emotionally charged new song explores Sawers’ journey. Filled with heartfelt lyrics and dynamic melodies, it serves as a moving portrayal of overcoming his struggles with OCD and his therapeutic process.
“Scared Fearless is a song I wrote about going through something very difficult – therapy!” says Sawers. “I have OCD, so this is a song about facing these OCD fears head-on until my brain is so desensitized to them that I’ve been scared into feeling fearless about them.”
The multi-talented pop, rock, and country artist, who now resides in Toronto, recorded “Scared Fearless” in a converted church that was used as a recording studio not far from the city.
“Despite the heaviness of the song, making ‘Scared Fearless’ was actually really fun” Sawers explains. “There is an old church near Toronto that was refurbished into a recording studio. We recorded all day there, with light shining on us from the stained-glass window – it was a special experience!”
“Scared Fearless” continues The M.A.S. Project’s successful track record, demonstrating Sawers’ versatility in a variety of musical styles. His infectious pop anthem, “Something Real” and his country-pop track “Giving Love a Try” are well-known to fans with the former being added to Spotify’s prestigious “New Music Friday Canada” playlist.
Sawers, the Calgarian musician, creates music that appeals to listeners all over the world by fusing modern production methods with retro inspirations. A debut performance at Massey Hall in 2024 and headline appearances at prestigious Toronto venues including The Drake Hotel are just a couple of the accolades he has received for his music.
Care to introduce yourself?
Thank you for having me! I go by “The M.A.S. Project” – I’m a solo artist, writer, musician, and performer. “M.A.S.” is an acronym for my initials – Michael Anthony Sawers. I’m based in Toronto, ON, and I have been writing and playing gigs there since moving from Calgary, Alberta about 2 years ago.
Tell us about the process of recording “Sacred Fearless”?
My new song “Scared Fearless” was very fun to make – I recorded the songs with some very talented friends, and we recorded it in an old church that was converted into a music studio in Hamilton called “Catherine North Studios”. One of the best parts of the process was recording it with my friends, who were playing the other instruments! Calvin Bakelaar, Jessie Taynton, and Alex Maiche played drums, bass, and electric guitar, respectively, and Ryan Luchuck put everything together in post-production! I wrote the songs, sang, and played piano and acoustic guitar.
What’s it like being an artist in Toronto, and moving there from Calgary?
Being an artist in Toronto is exciting and overwhelming. Some of my favourite places I’ve played at The Drake Hotel, Sneaky Dee’s, and recently I played a corporate show at Massey Hall!!
Who was the first and most recent Canadian artist to blow you away?
The Arkells! I saw them live in London, ON, and got to meet them recently at a small pop-up show for their new album “Laundry Pile”. I was blown away since they took so much time to interact with all of their fans.
You’ve been making music for a bit of time now, what’s one piece of advice you can offer to those starting out?
One thing I’m trying to do more though is enjoy the process more.