Release Date: (December 27, 2005)
Label: INO Records
Producer: Derek Webb & Cason Cooley

December Hotel
Overall Rating:  ++++

"Mockingbird" is Derek Webb's latest love potion: a mirror, emetic, and trail mix for the Christian wandering this modern landscape. A very consistent effort, it examines personal and societal obligations through the lens of love. Surprisingly engaging, it boasts a number of songs worth adopting.

The Content: Touted as an album about "God, politics, and social issues," as suggested by Webb on his "How to Kill and Be Killed" DVD, "Mockingbird" presents meditations on the truth and consequences of love. Webb presents love as an act of intense loyalty to the Savior and those He loves. In that context, politics, the art of getting along with other people, becomes sacred business, and having songs of love and politics rub shoulders becomes quite natural.

"Mockingbird" is the confessional opener, presenting Webb's search for authenticity, truth, and solid ground in this world of many songs. "A New Law" is a powerful plea for an uncomplicated life, presumably referencing John 13:34. "A King and a Kingdom" is a genuine rallying cry that veers into truly frightening territory--in my mind, the most powerful song on the album. "I Hate Everything (But You)" was co-written by Webb's wife, Sandra McCracken, and it's a good one, a nice love song. With love and allegiance surveyed, "Rich Young Ruler" and "My Enemies are Men Like Me" tackle poverty and war powerfully, in part through the eyes of the Savior. I don't quite get "Zeroes and Ones" yet--the lack of a lyrics sheet doesn't help. "In God We Trust" is a simple meditation on trusting God--and oh there are many situations worth noting here. "Please, Before I Go" is a pretty little love song. "Love is Not Against the Law" summarizes what came before.

The Music: The tunes are melodically simple, the arrangements clean and interesting, and the vocals affecting. Much tighter than previous efforts, it holds up well to repeated listenings from start to finish. "A Consistent Ethic of Human Life" is an instrumental touchstone that features strings, brass, and bells, providing an important structural framework for the album. (For example, if you hear horn and trumpet, expect love to be an important theme of the song.) Their presence makes this album a much richer experience. "Rich Young Ruler" boasts an electric guitar solo! but not by Derek Webb, alas. (I do wish he would make a more electric guitar-driven album with solos done by himself.) Overall, this might be Derek's best solo effort, musically.

Impression: This is Derek Webb's most accessible album to date. The music is attractive though not ground-breaking. The lyrics are thought-provoking. For those who appreciate Webb's efforts to promote self-examination, this is a must-have and food for thought.
 

~ Thomas H. Ayers