Christiaan Webb was/is apart of the Webb Brothers, a band that I remember from the early part of 2000 which involved his brother Justin and later James and also included a collaboration with his father Jimmy Webb. Their best known album is Maroon.
Christiaan has decided to go alone for now, and after what seems like a spiritual journey he is to release A Man Possessed. A title inspired by his somewhat intense and very inspirational and prolific period of writing. His style is very reflective and I guess obviously spiritual. A point of fact I read that he felt spiritually guided by George Harrison; he wrote if you are ever possessed by a spirit, I recommend George Harrison.
In saying this I feel his style and vocal sound is very Elvis Costello. His lyrics are incredibly powerful and rich. He is particular drawn to the work of Lennon, Billy Joel, Billy Preston and his father Jimmy Webb.
I am pulled to Fountain of Youth whose guitar playing reminds me of Lennon. We Are Under the Same Stars is Costello meeting Lennon, with additional backing harmonies that are chilling. And a very deliberate George Harrison riff towards the back end of the track.
My Best Intentions is a continuation of a very solid yet almost melancholic trend with Webbs writing. I love the backing vocals of Romeo Stodart and Angela Gannon from the Magic Numbers, class indeed.
I enjoyed the whole album very much and it grows and grows with each play revealing a very interesting man who has broken off the shackles of his rock and roll life to show an altogether fuller musician. Its thought provoking and relaxing and very playable.
An impressive solo debut.