Update #4 (July 7, 2009): Order the album and download it RIGHT NOW…here’s the info.

Update #3 (June 23, 2009): I’ve got the album…and it’s fantastic.

Update #2 (May 19, 2009): an email with a code? a website with instructions? what’s going on here?

Update #1 (May 12, 2009): click here for my most recent post on Stockholm Syndrome and the email Derek recently sent out regarding the release of this record.

photo by Geof Morris

One of the perks of being friends with a guy like Derek Webb is that occasionally I get things before anyone else. Whether it’s new music, some breaking news that someone is leaving the band, or information about an upcoming tour or project, it’s always great to be in the know before most people are.

It doesn’t always work that way, though. I knew that Derek was collaborating on a new album with longtime Caedmon’s member Josh Moore (Derek had told me that at Messiah College back in October), I knew it was scheduled for release in the first half of 2009, and I had even heard rumblings about the themes Derek is going to be tackling…but I didn’t know that the title was. Now I do.

“Stockholm Syndrome”

This isn’t insider information, though. If you’re on Derek’s mailing list, you’re in the know. Here’s what the email that went out this morning had to say…

It’s been over a year since Derek released his critically acclaimed The Ringing Bell, and he’s currently writing and recording his new album, which we hear is going to be titled Stockholm Syndrome.

He’s collaborating with long time friend and former Caedmon’s Call bandmate Josh Moore on what is rumored to be a more experimental, electronic album.

Teasing with programmed and decidedly more ‘inorganic’ elements, Stockholm Syndrome is shaping up to be Derek’s most ambitious album to date.

Be on the lookout for a tentative May 2009 release.

The thing I love most about Derek is that he never rests on his laurels. He could pump out introspective, acoustic music that his fans would eagerly buy up every year and never take any musical risks. But he’s always looking to mix things up and keep it fresh. I’m probably more excited about this release than I have been for anything he’s done since he left the band. And that’s saying something.

Speaking of taking risks, Derek has been pouring a lot of time and energy into NoiseTrade these days. If you’ve never heard of it, check it out. Lots of great music. You either pay what you want for it, or you download it in exchange for 5 email addresses of friends you think might like it. Total win-win.

But anyway, back to Derek’s new release. Are you curious about what “stockholm syndrome” is? I was. According to the Big W, here’s the definition:

Stockholm syndrome is a psychological response sometimes seen in an abducted hostage, in which the hostage shows signs of loyalty to the hostage-taker, regardless of the danger (or at least risk) in which they have been placed.

Can not wait to see where Derek is going with this! What about you? Any other albums releasing next year that you guys are looking forward to? I’m always looking for good suggestions…