Derek Webb - Mockingbird

Published Wednesday 21st June 2006
Derek Webb - Mockingbird
Derek Webb - Mockingbird

STYLE: Roots/Acoustic
RATING 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9
OUR PRODUCT CODE: 17711-11214
LABEL: Fair Trade Services 000768381724
FORMAT: CD Album
ITEMS: 1
RRP: £4.99

Reviewed by Jamie Hailstone

It is a sad indictment of the conservatism which is rampant within the contemporary Christian music marketplace that there are not more artists like Derek Webb. A former member of Caedmon's Call, his solo career has seen him court more controversy than more conservative US retailers refusing to stock his first solo CD because of 'strong' language. 'Mockingbird' is his third solo offering and with song titles like "My Enemies Are Men Like Me" or "A Consistent Ethic Of Human Life", it's safe to say this is not your average praise and worship collection. Musically, he sounds a lot like David Gray, but the mellow tempo of 'Mockingbird' can mask some of the most challenging lyrics ever heard. Webb puts a voice to many fears, concerns and doubts which are usually just swept under the carpet by other musicians. For example, does God really favour the nation-state? Is the American government really on God's side? His songs are unlikely to win him much favour with America's Christian Right, but his music will make you think - whatever your politics. Quite simply, if you want to hear gutsy acoustic-orientated music that will challenge you and move you then you have to check out this passionate communicator. He is a rare voice and deserves to be heard.

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
Derek Webb, formerly of Caedmon's Call, is releasing his third solo album, Mockingbird.
'There's only one bird that doesn't have its own song. That's the mockingbird. I don't want to have my own song. I want to mimic the songs of Christ. I want to speak only where He speaks and be silent where He is silent.' Derek Webb.
No shrinking violet, Derek Webb addresses the areas of our lives that are so often overlooked by other communicators. Mockingbird is a provocative collection of songs that ask intelligent questions to broaden and deepen our views on what Christ has to say about the concerns of our lives, including social justice, poverty, war and politics. Not one to offer pat, easy answers, this record offers deep, probing questions wrapped in accessible melodies to stimulate our thinking and crystallise our personal theologies.

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.