Derek Webb - I See Things Upside Down

Published Monday 17th January 2005
Derek Webb - I See Things Upside Down
Derek Webb - I See Things Upside Down

STYLE: Roots/Acoustic
RATING 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8
OUR PRODUCT CODE: 12396-1491
LABEL: Fair Trade Services 000768321706
FORMAT: CD Album
RELEASE DATE: 2005-01-03
RRP: £4.99

Reviewed by John Daniels

I don't know but perhaps Derek Webb has been unlucky in love. At least that could be your first impression of this album, with tracks such as the atmospheric opener "I Want A Broken Heart", "Nothing Is Ever Enough", "Better Than Wine", "Lover Part 2" and even arguably "Reputation". Having said that at least the last three can also be seen in the context of our relationship with Jesus. But the 12 song set is more than just a few love songs, including as it does some quite hard hitting "social comment" songs often highlighting the struggles of living the Christian life. "I Repent" shows up the inconsistencies of life in middle class suburbia. (Or is it a comment on America's approach to the rest of the world?) "T-Shirts (What We Should Be Known For)", although rather jolly, focuses on the less pleasant aspects of "Christianity" and the way it's perceived, with the all too often "self-righteous" attitudes and immovable stands on trivial issues. "Ballad In Plain Red", in a pop/folk style reminiscent of Stealer's Wheel, hits out at the growing commerciality of the Christian scene, "Everything is for sale in the 21st century!" On a more encouraging note, the U2-ish, "The Strong, The Tempted & The Weak" looks at the way Jesus' love is there for us whether we are strong, tempted or weak, and we are all three, at different times. You have to wait until the last track for the album's title to appear in a song. "What Is Not Love" shows up the apparent contradictions in Christianity and Jesus death and resurrection. Yes, as the one-time Caedmon's Call songsmith shows here, life can appear upside down.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

Interested in reviewing music? Find out more here.

Product Description
He travels from city to city in a van, teaching scripture, playing in living rooms and normally wears nothing but a white t-shirt and jeans. With this studio album, Derek Webb (former lead singer of Caedmon's Call), returns with an album that's true to its name from start to finish. Exploring the topic of vale and what things look like, but not from the most obvious angle, this album tells the story of how we as Christians often value things 'upside down' from true Kingdom values.
Through twelve original songs including 'I Want A Broken Heart', 'The Strong, The Tempted & The Weak' and 'We Come To You', this worship album of confession and repentance can change the lives of those with an open heart and an ear to hear.

Be the first to comment on this article

We welcome your opinions but libellous and abusive comments are not allowed.












We are committed to protecting your privacy. By clicking 'Send comment' you consent to Cross Rhythms storing and processing your personal data. For more information about how we care for your data please see our privacy policy.