Album Review: Chris Webb, Left to Write
Left to Write is Chris Webb’s initial solo release supported by a label. What took so long? Webb’s music is insightful and intelligent. As a graduate from the University of Colorado in 2004 with a BA in music, he has put his degree to good use. The album as a whole is well crafted and has a widespread appeal while still remaining true to Webb’s innovative roots. Webb is an accomplished guitarist with technical abilities that surpass the average singer/songwriter. Think of a more melodic, advanced Jack Johnson with early Michael Hedges influences mixed with the prospect of extended instrumental improvisation.
The opening track “Find The Groove” is an upbeat, optimistic, and passionate view into the world of Chris Webb. The superb storytelling of Webb is backed by the propelling driving beat of drummer John Rademaekers. This album is not a blind rose-colored view of the world, but a realistic take on the ups and downs of life. Take for example the lyrics in the slower, introspective “All Stands Around Me”: “Sometimes I think I could drive myself insane, is this how I’m built to be, always trying to set things free? I’ve spent too much time thinking and too much time drinking…” The album runs the gamut of an instrumental “DM Interlude” to the slow ballad of “Folding The Daze,” to the percussion playing of Mendel Rabinovitch on “Talking To The Devil.”
Originally published in the Colorado Music Buzz Magazine
