Caedmon’s Call is back… and while they might not be “better than ever,” they’re definitely better than they have been in a long time. Overdressed (to be released next Tuesday) returns Caedmon’s Call to their acoustic/folk roots, giving us an engaging collection of songs that hearken back to 40 Acres and their self-titled debut.
Derek Webb returns to the Caedmon’s fold for Overdressed, and not a moment too soon. I’ve never thought Caedmon’s Call was as good without Derek, and neither have I liked Derek as much without Caedmon’s. The album begins with Derek in full force on a folksy gospel-twinged song called “Trouble,” a song that sets the theme for the rest of the CD. We’re depraved. We’re sinful. We’re overdressed. But God is good.
From there, we jump back into standard Caedmon’s fare: “Need Your Love” features Cliff Young’s recognizable vocals, a catchy chorus, and the characteristic pop sound, creating a song that could fit comfortably on any Caedmon’s Call album since their debut.
Danielle takes the lead on “Sacred,” a song that reminds us of the holistic gospel – where every part of life is sacred. Andrew Osenga’s first major contribution to Overdressed is “Expectations,” a song with compelling lyrics that suffers under the weight of an over-ambitious musical arrangement. “There is a Reason” is one of the better offerings on the album, reminding listeners of God’s master plan of making all things good.
Derek and Danielle share vocal duties on “Share in the Blame,” one of the most thought-provoking lyrics on the album. Echoes of Share the Well return with “Two Weeks in Africa” and “All Across the Western World.” Osenga’s “Hold the Light” is a powerful song about authentic Christian community.
Overdressed is easily the best Caedmon’s Call album since Back Home. But don’t expect another 40 Acres. Even with Derek’s return to the band, Caedmon’s Call is different today than 10 years ago for a variety of reasons, including Andrew Osenga’s singing/songwriting presence, a missional focus missing in early records, and a musical maturity that comes from 10 years of touring.
After hearing Overdressed several times, I am convinced that this is what I want from Caedmon’s Call: I want to be provoked. I want to be encouraged. I want to be challenged. I want to be taken in by the compelling music. And with Overdressed, the group succeeds.
(Read my recent interview with Caedmon’s Call)
written by Trevin Wax © 2007 Kingdom People blog
[...] my review of [...]
Pingback by My Interview with Caedmon’s Call « Kingdom People — August 24, 2007 @ 6:52 pm
I”m about two-thirds of the way through this album (playing it in my car) and so far I’m very, very disappointed. Perhaps my opinion will change after repeat listenings. Was the group concerned that Andrew Osenga would feel left out with Derek’s return, so they let him sing more than usual? Seems like I’ve heard his voice on every track (backing or lead vocals). I think he’s a gifted songwriter, but he lacks the vocal strength of Derek Webb and has a slight “nasaly” sound. Most of the songs I’ve heard seem forgetable. The best songs I’ve heard thus far sound like the good songs sandwiched between the great songs on 40 Acres.
Comment by Erik — August 25, 2007 @ 10:30 pm
Keep listening. Like all Caedmon’s albums, it grows on you.
I agree about Osenga, though. I like him and his voice, but it’s hard for me to hear him as “Caedmon’s Call.” The first time I heard him singing on Share the Well, I thought – Who is that and what is that voice doing on a Caedmon’s record? I’ve gotten used to his contributions now.
Comment by trevinwax — August 26, 2007 @ 7:03 am
I got my copy in the mail the other day, and I really, really like it. I have missed the Derek/Caedmon’s combo a whole lot, and you can tell he’s back with them on the record. I agree with you – while it’s not the best CC album, it’s what I want from them.
Comment by Chelsey — August 27, 2007 @ 2:45 pm