His third solo effort, "Mockingbird," continues his gutsy willingness to combine spiritual challenge with artistic excellence in the hope of provoking thought, and ultimately, action. I don't throw the "excellence" word around lightly; Webb is one of our best songwriters and even his harshest critics concede his eloquence and obvious intelligence. What they fail to see is his heart.
Webb has this to say about the album's title: "There's only one bird that doesn't have its own song. That's the mockingbird. I don't want 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." "Mockingbird" is true to this direction, and its musical quality is equal to its fervency. Its production values are spotless, highlighting Webb's straightforward approach perfectly. No tricks, no false humility, no shrinking back from the Scriptural truths that Webb presents in humble, unswerving love. And the whole acoustic package is wrapped in lovely arrangements, French horns and cellos sprinkled graciously throughout. In note of his sincerity, see his freederekwebb.com site, coming in Sept., where he is making free downloads available. Our earlier posting tells more about this.
Webb aims the first arrows inward as the opening title track's woeful self-assessment begins. He is in the same boat as we are: in desperate need of Grace. He's just not as willing to drift aimlessly as we might be. The stunner "New Law" begins the shredding of our complacency, our willful ignorance, the strings humming fiercely below his quiet vocals like a truth train bearing down, not a moment too soon. Bring it, please. The moving "A King and a Kingdom" introduces the theme of God's supremacy, burning through the album like a great light. Some take offense at songs as well-aimed as this one; I find my heart broken by its truthfulness. Ultimately, Derek Webb only makes me want more of God in me. Isn't that supposed to be what "Christian music" is about? Like Jack Nicholson's great line in "As Good As It Gets," he makes me want to be a better man.... or woman.
Speaking of Christian music, the achingly lovely "I Hate Everything (But You)" reveals a small taste of the cost of being Derek Webb in today's music industry, as does "Zeroes and Ones," its whimsical arrangement belying its solemn message. These sterling songs contain as much beauty as truth. Take note of the lush "Please, Before I Go" if you think he's nothing more than an angry prophet. Closing the album is the melodic gem, "Love Is Not Against the Law," his heartfelt plea for the bending of our knees.
Derek Webb is built just like the rest of us; he'd probably be thrilled if his albums actually sold well. But I get the feeling he'd take more pleasure if we responded to his music by letting its truths sink deep our hearts, if we too began to sing the songs of Christ.
