MARCUS CHEONG listens to David Willersdorf’s new album, Outside the Inside…
Outside the Inside
David Willersdorf
Whistletone, 2018
In a Word: Deep
“Outside the Inside is a very different album of faith from the upbeat worship ballads and anthems that populate the mainstream faith music scene. It is a welcome addition to those seeking an honest voice of faith that has been tested and is still persevering.”
Veteran singer/songwriter David Willersdorf’s latest album, Outside the Inside, is a blend of soul, blues, jazz and Gospel that explores melancholy themes with maturity and faith.
The 10 tracks feature David’s deep, rich voice in an album that sounds somewhat reminiscent of Nick Cave. David’s deep tones are a good match for the subject matter which definitely leans toward the blues end of the mood spectrum. Survival, dealing with loss, overcoming depression and regret are among the subjects he delves into on this album.
Yet, throughout this melancholy journey, there is an underpinning of faith – just like psalms 22 and 40 (and several other of King David’s songs), these songs that don’t deny a very real struggle but maintain the belief that there is a divine power that ultimately triumphs.
On the brighter side of the album, highlights include the recently released single Outside Yourself, a reflective, hopeful tune about shifting perspectives and the quirky Strange Little Secret that has a bounce to its rhythm which will get toes tapping.
In contrast, Until I Met You and You Came and Found Me highlights David’s ability to take a walk on the dark side musically without being depressing. In fact those dark tones serve to highlight the hope that is present when the lyrics and melody shift from the struggle to the saving power of God.
David freely admits that his music may not be for everyone and he has chosen to create tunes that are authentic to his experience and style. In doing so, Outside the Inside is a very different album of faith from the upbeat worship ballads and anthems that populate the mainstream faith music scene. It is a welcome addition to those seeking an honest voice of faith that has been tested and is still persevering.
