Caedmon's Call, the seven member acoustic folk-rock band from Texas, released its second national album on Tuesday, April 13, 1999 called 40 Acres. It's the follow up to their 1997 self titled national debut that sold more than 250,000 copies. Caedmon's Call tried to capture their compelling live show in 40 Acres, and they succeeded. The album is dynamic, fun, passionate, and honest. "When I was writing music for 40 Acres I knew that the songs would be heard on a national level," said Tate. "I realized that the reason people often don't write honest songs is not because they don't struggle or don't have sin in their lives; it's because it's terrifying. I'm not proud of the ideas in many of my songs. For instance, take 'Shifting Sand,' off the new record--I wish that I found believing in God easy, and that I woke up each morning believing in Him completely. But the fact is that, for me, it's an effort to even believe in God some mornings. I'm not proud of that; I wish it weren't true. But when we're writing, we have to tell the truth. The people that think I'm spiritual because I can write are the ones who don't understand the songs. And the people that really understand the songs know that I've got some problems." A limited edition run of 20,000 bonus CDs will be packaged with 40 Acres, featuring three rough studio cuts. They expect the bonus CDs to sell out within a week.
"For You so loved the unlovable / That You gave the ineffable / That who so believes the unbelievable / Will gain the unattainable." ('There You Go' from the new album)
Other coverage for this album
7ball #24Reviewed by Derek WalkerThe eyes of Rich Mullins peek out from behind the songwriting of Derek Webb and Aaron Tate, Caedmon's Call's chief lyricists--not a surprise considering Mullins' well-known influence on the band. Their attention to detail and love of metaphor, coupled with the bold acoustic guitars and pop smarts that have become Caedmon's Call's musical trademark, makes 40 Acres an enjoyable piece of rock 'n'…The Phantom Tollbooth 1999Reviewed by Linda T. StonehockerCaedmon's Call is an alternative band in the best sense of the word. Stylistically, their sound falls into the light acoustic folk/rock camp, but the secret of their success lies in choosing unorthodox alternatives to the decisions every band has to make. Instead of the easy route of playing at churches for youth groups, this thoughtful group of Christian musicians found their niche on major…The Phantom Tollbooth 1999Reviewed by Shari LloydFollowing up a successful debut isn't easy, but 40 Acres proves Caedmon's Call has met the challenge. Although none of the songs grab me like "Bus Driver," this isn't surprising when you consider even their initial release took awhile to grow on me, yet now sees heavy rotation in my CD player. Like their previous album, these new songs are about Christianity lived out in our everyday lives, and…The Phantom Tollbooth 1999Reviewed by James StewartCaedmon's Call's debut label release planted them firmly on the list of Christian artists who could shift units with the best of them, but the band are eager to leave that category and return to their roots touring colleges. And it is probably a college audience who will best appreciate the self-aware lyrical confessions and many-levelled allusions contained here. As the album title suggests,…The Phantom Tollbooth 1999Reviewed by Steven S. BaldwinWith an album as solidly strong as 40 Acres, the catapulting popularity of Caedmon's Call is no conundrum. Delivering great multi-generational appeal, their pleasant mix of pretty pop folk and good-time honky-tonk-lite is safe yet honest, catchy but not cliché. You'd be hard pressed to find another band this consistent, and every familiar song here will bring a big ol' happy smile to your face.…The Phantom Tollbooth 1999Reviewed by Alex KlagesCaedmon's Call is back, on a new label, but with the same signature sound as the first album contained. If there is a weakness to this new album, that would likely be it--it just doesn't seem to be breaking any new ground. I'm not suggesting that the old ground was anything to be ashamed of. What Caedmon's Call does, they do very well. The acoustic guitars, percussion, and organ blend well…The Phantom Tollbooth 1999Reviewed by Cathy CourtwrightCaedmon's Call's follow-up to their debut album is a project worthy to bear the band's name. 40 Acres is an acoustic, pop driven record which compels the listener to think about the redeeming power of Christ. This seven-member ensemble covers a gamut of songs ranging from simple melodies all the way to excitement packed rockets. The principally acoustic guitars and strong rhythm/percussion…Similar sounding releases
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