Overdressed

iTunes Review

Since the early ‘90s, Caedmon’s Call has served up their unpretentious brand of Christian folk-rock with remarkable consistency. Overdressed (2007) ranks among their most appealing releases, emphasizing the acoustic-oriented sound which earned them their original following. This album marks the return of founding singer/guitarist Derek Webb to the fold, and evidently he and songwriting spouse Sandra McCracken have been listening to the Band in their spare time — “Trouble” and “Share In The Blame” recall the melodic rock/country/gospel fusion of that legendary group. There’s an early ‘70s vibe to many tracks, with tunes like “Need Your Love” and “There Is A Reason” bringing bands like Poco and Pure Prairie League to mind. As ever, the group’s warmly-strummed guitars and brisk drumlines are harnessed to convey a God-centered message. This doesn’t preclude critiques of fellow believers — “Expectations” (sung by Andrew Osenga) takes a swipe at commercialized Christianity. For her part, Danielle Young considers God’s constant presence in “Sacred” and celebrates family life in “Love Grows Love.” A wider view is provided by “Two Weeks In Africa,” a Third World travel narrative. Tuneful, intelligent, and “spirited,” in more than one sense of the word.