Welcome to the first spin of the ChurchMag Turntable.
This week, we’re going to listen to Derek Webb’s latest album, ‘Ctrl.’
We’re also going to give away a free copy!
Press PLAY:
Ctrl
First off, let me disclose to you that I am a Derek Webb fan.
I’ve been following Derek’s work since before he ventured off on his own from Caedmon’s Call with his acoustically awesome and lyrically riveting ‘She Must and Shall Go Free.’
Every one of Derek’s albums have their own flavor. Although some of them overlap a tad from a music style standpoint, each piece of work/art stands alone in both style and message.
The message usually leads to discussion and often times controversy.
But, shouldn’t all art do that?
If you’ve never listened to Derek’s art and are tired of the usual contemporary ”Christian” music lyrics, you’ll find his lyrics a definite change of pace.
The Sound
‘Ctrl’ reminds me a little of his album ‘Stockholm Syndrome’ when it comes to the overall sound, but then again, Derek produced it with Josh Moore, who had his hand in producing ‘Stockholm Syndrome.’
All in all, I would say ‘Ctrl’ has a mellow feel to it. Not a “put you to sleep” kind of mellow. Don’t get me wrong. It’s the kind of mellow you don’t really notice until you change up your iTunes to something else.
The overall sound is a delightful mix of acoustic guitar, dynamic vocals, electronic pop, flavored with a 17th century cathedral choir backdrop. Quite the mix, right? It is, and it’s awesome.
To sample the ‘Ctrl’ sound, you can download, for free, three tracks via NoiseTrade.
The Lyric
Derek is a music artist in all sense of the word, but what really sets Derek apart is his lyrics.
You don’t have to listen very long to know the concept of JPM (Jesus’ Per Minute) has been tossed to the side. His flavor of “Christian” music is aimed at challenging and tackling issues the Church faces. You won’t leave one of Derek’s albums without having something hit you in the face like freezing cold water. His lyrics aren’t for the faint of heart or easily offended.
Conclusion
‘Ctrl’ by Derek Webb is a like his other albums — it’s a journey.
It usually takes me a number of plays before I warm up to an album, and this latest release took far fewer than usual. I recommend sampling a few tracks of ‘Ctrl’ before making a purchase, but I will say that with every album I recommend.
‘Ctrl‘ is not only an album worth pressing ‘play,’ it’s an album worth putting on ‘repeat.’
You can purchase ’Ctrl’ on Derek Webb’s website.
Giveaway
We’re giving away a copy of ‘Ctrl’ by Derek Webb!
Here’s how to enter:
Share this postTell us why you want ‘Ctrl’
That’s it!
The winner will be randomly selected on Tuesday, August 21st 2011.
[Image via Kris]
I’ve always loved Derek Webb, both in his work with Caedmon’s Call and his solo work. I would love to have another one of his albums, simply because he is not simply a singer, he is an artist and he creates art in his music. And of course, Noisetrade, is also one of his greatest creations, as well.
I’ve loved Derek Webb’s music since the Caedmon’s years, but his last two albums haven’t been my favorite. He said via Twitter that this is the album that his old listeners might love, so I’m really excited to listen to it. Pick me!
(Sharing on Twitter.)
I’ve been a fan of Webb since his earliest work and would love to get a hold of this newest work.
I want the album!
I love Derek Webb and his constant pushing of the envelope of his art and music.
Thanks for the great review!
I’m a huge fan not only of DW’s art, but his conviction. I’d love to have this new album.
You WIN!
Um, I’d love it because I have “Ctrl” issues.
I love Derek Webb and I’m too poor to get the album
First sampling that I’ve heard of Derek and would like to hear more.
As you note in your review, Webb is a bit of an acquired taste, but I have appreciated the challenge of his lyrics and the consistent quality of his musicianship.
Derek feeds my soul and I am sure to give him money when I can see him in concert!