There is a deeper level to Derek Webb's music. It comes through on many of his songs. It's a rare combination of honesty and truth. It's somewhat reminiscent of Keith Green and Rich Mullins. His words penetrate revealing what we sometimes miss. The truth strips away illusions, laying hearts bare. It convicts of sin.
How many artists ever use the word "repent?" It's the theme of one of his songs. How many would call themselves a whore or write a song called "I Want a Broken Heart"?
It's good to be challenged and confronted with the truth. That seems to be a missing element in CCM. Listening to Webb is a little like having a prophet in your midst. But he's unassuming. He's just being honest and wants to avoid being a hypocrite. He lays his heart bare in songs, telling the truth as he sees it.
It's not always clear though what he is saying. I feel like there was more than I was getting. You have to listen carefully on some songs to understand what they are about. It requires a little more from listeners. His songs not only invite but also require repeated listens.
After opening with "I Want a Broken Heart," Derek and his band rip through the Caedmon's Call classic "Thankful." Paul Moak smokes on guitar, as he does throughout. Cason Cooley, formerly with The Normals, is terrific on keyboards. Webb and all the band members perform superbly. These guys are great together. Webb acknowledges that he was fortunate to be able to play with the same four guys that helped him make "I See Things Upside Down."
I would describe the style of music as alternative folk/pop/rock, similar to Caedmon's Call. This will probably appeal most to those who enjoy alternative rock. The band performs a total of four Caedmon's Call songs, much of the aforementioned CD and some songs from Webb's earlier solo work.
It's a minor thing, but I did not like the film editing. I could have done without the intentionally blurry shots. A frequent distorted view looking up at Webb and his microphone is annoying. There are some poor angles, and the camera is actually bouncing in one shot. I realize that it may be purposeful, but I think it detracts.
The title of the DVD comes from a line in a song. I think it has to do with letting God show us how to put to death our old selves.
Bonus material includes an insightful interview with Derek on several subjects. Webb definitely has something to say, and he says it with great music.
4 tocks
Other coverage for this album
The Phantom Tollbooth 2005Reviewed by Brian A. SmithImagine a band and singer that sounds like a cross between the Ragamuffin Band and Over the Rhine. Picture Rich Mullins' rough honesty melded with Linford Detweiler's lush keyboards and organ. How to Kill and Be Killed, Derek Webb's first DVD as a solo artist manages to do all of these things and more. The band that played on Webb's most recent recording, I See Things Upside Down, is intact for…
