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A Man Possessed is the first solo album from Christiaan Webb, one half of the much loved Webb Brothers. A band that have always held a special and prominent place in my music collection, with the self titled 2003 album and the 2006 release of Maroon being played a great deal of times over the years.
Due to my love of The Webb Brothers, I had high expectations of this solo album from Christiaan. I began questioning if could he meet the high standards set by the work he completed with his brother. After one listen to the album I was left in no doubt that those expectations had been met. ‘A Man Possessed’ is a collection of gorgeous, timeless songs that provides further evidence that Christiaan Webb is one of modern days great songwriters.
The album contains many melodies and chord changes that will have fans of the Webb Brothers going weak at the knees. ‘Midnight Moon’ has to be one of the best songs Christiaan has written. This is a real tearjerker as he sings “What is this place without her/drafty room and an empty bed/I lie awake and I wait for the morning”. The album also highlights the soul in Christiaans voice. ‘Westward Man’ and ‘My Best Intentions’ brings out a different vocal style and in doing so shows that Christiaan is able to adapt to a deep and powerful soul moment. Other standout tracks on the album include ‘Life Support’ which is another moment of real beauty. ‘What If There’s No Afterlife’ draws you in with the reflective lyrical style and catchy melody. ‘There’s Nowhere I’d Rather Be’ has a very John Lennon esque feel to it, and continues with the albums theme of loving and reflective lyrics. ‘Last Night On Earth‘ is a song centered around wanting to make someones last night very special and memorable,”It’s your last walk in the sun/so take it in with those who adore you”, a feeling that I am sure many will be able to relate to.
In fifty years from now when music historians start discussing great songwriters there is no doubt in my mind that Christiaan Webb deserves to be mentioned in those debates. His work with his brother and now as a solo artist has proved Christiaan is a very talented songwriter who has given this world so much music to treasure.
Rating: 8/10
Steve Tay
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