Alas, what to make of one Toby McKeehan, aka Tobymac? The most obvious choice is to label him a Contemporary Christian singer, but such a moniker does him little justice. His first three studio albums -- Momentum, Welcome to Diverse City, and Portable Sounds (his first to reach Billboard's top ten) -- distinguish him from the run-of-the-mill Christian pop that became fodder for Seinfeld jokes in the 1990's. His songwriting style illustrates the influences of Sting, Nirvana, Seal, as well as the grunge and rap-rock trends of the last two decades. He is a rapper, but one whose sound differs drastically from anything else current generating radio airplay on Christian (or secular) stations. His new live CD/DVD set serves notice to listeners that they are better served to appreciate good music than to worry about how to categorize it.
Tobymac In Concert
Alive and Transported features material from a recent Tobymac tour date in Houston, Texas – a wise choice, given the energy the crowd brings to the recording. The crowd’s enthusiasm seems to push McKeehan and his Diversecity band into some creative moments that fans of Tobymac’s studio work likely will find pleasantly surprising. From old-school beat-boxing to a couple of superlative guitar solos, the Alive project incorporates a wide-ranging show that illustrates the history of rap music.
Concert Highlights
Alive and Transported features several of Tobymac’s best tracks – and some lesser tracks that are best heard in concert instead of in studio recordings. “Gone” takes on a more earnest tone in concert, likely heightening the tune’s impact. The nondescript “I’m for You” becomes a crown favorite in concert. “Diverse City” allows the band room to jam in ways that few Contemporary Christian musicians do. “The Slam,” which received secular exposure in commercials and movie trailers, is a can’t-miss performance. And “Atmosphere,” the track that most eloquently illustrates Tobymac’s secular and religious musical influences, is arguably better live than it was on its studio album – which is quite an accomplishment.
Other concert highlights include a couple of references to Tobymac’s days in DC Talk. “In the Light” recalls the pop music influences that gave the band its crossover appeal, while the title track from the trendsetting Jesus Freak CD reminds the listener of the similarities between DC Talk’s later work and the best rock music of the nineties.
All things considered, this album effectively pleases dual audiences. Diehard fans will sing along to each song and enjoy the occasional improvisation, while new listeners likely will expand their views of what Christian music is – and can be.
