Alexander Webb

Alexander Webb doesn't take the stage until he's taken off his shoes. He smiles and begins. The venue fills with an acoustic blend of classic motown and modern rock, soulful melodies wrapped around fearless words. The audience realizes that this is an artist with much to say but nothing to prove. Years as a star quarterback have driven away the pretense -- the need to play it safe -- and have left, instead, a steely resolve to see what is true in himself and others. His Texas roots show in the flourishes of Americana, but this is no southern boy with a guitar. Alexander Webb is a poet, and his medium does not offer the option of passive tolerance. His is an art which demands thoughtful response. And as the show ends, the audience exits with hearts stopped and minds racing.- jed brewer