Christian artist Derek Webb packs a punch with challenging lyrics

Cape Girardeau is in store for an uplifting performance.

On Wednesday, Grace United Methodist Church will host Christian artist Derek Webb. But Webb is not your typical Christian musician.

"What Derek does is not very common," said Joshua Smith, a youth minister at Grace Methodist and the person responsible for the concert. "Most Christian musicians stay away from political speeches because that's thin ice. Religion and politics are pretty closely related. Musically, he's pretty mellow, but his lyrics pack a punch."

Webb's music has a Bob Dylan sound. During performances, he has a knack for saying what he thinks people don't necessarily want to hear but, rather, what they need to hear.

"He calls people out on things," Smith said. "He's not just about making you feel good on Sunday morning. There is a call to action there."

Smith cites Webb's belief of James 2:20, which reads "faith without works is dead." He said Webb's political leanings are dictated by the teachings of Christ. The website allmusic.com describes him as one who "has an agitator's soul and a flair for the controversial approaches he uses in his music to force careful thought on vitally important issues."

He began his career in 1993 with the Texas-based Christian pop band Cademon's Call and released five albums with them before striking out on his own 10 years later. Since 2003, Webb has released four solo albums; his latest is 2007's "The Ringing Bell," a live and acoustic affair that, in terms of subject matter, goes further than his previous releases.

Sexuality, life in the church and social justice are recurring themes on his newest effort.

According to a news release, Webb's personal struggle to find peace is what fuels his work.

"I feel like I have violence in me that if left unchecked, could show itself in really ugly ways," he said in the release. "It's not just physical violence but emotional and relational violence. John Lennon was asked about the peace movement he was a part of in the 1970s, and he said 'I don't do this because I'm peaceful. I'm a really violent person.' That's probably why I'm so drawn to this."

Webb's wife and fellow Christian artist Sandra McCracken will also appear on the bill. Also included is contemporary Christian group Waterdeep with Alli Rogers opening the show starting at 7 p.m. Wednesday.

Tickets are $17 in advance or $20 on the day of the show. Doors open at 6 p.m. at Grace United Methodist Church, 523 Caruthers Ave.