Caedmon’s Call was a contemporary Christian band which fused traditional folk with world music and alternative rock. They are composed of Cliff Young (lead vocals and rhythm guitar), Danielle Young (vocals), Garett Buell (percussion), Jeff Miller (bass guitar), Todd Bragg (drums), and Josh Moore (keyboard, accordion, harmonica).
Former members include Doug Elmore (percussion), Cari Harris Moore (vocals), Randy Holsapple (hammond organ), Aric Nitzberg (bass guitar), Joshua Phillips (pan flute/percussion), and Aaron Tate (songwriting duties). Derek Webb (vocals, guitar) left the band in 2001 to pursue a solo career, but briefly returned to the band for the 2007 recording of Overdressed. Andrew Osenga joined around the time of Webb’s departure, and left after the brief tour backing the 2007 album Overdressed.
The band’s unusual name was inspired by Caedmon, an Anglo-Saxon cow-herder and monk who lived during the 7th century. Legend has it that Caedmon was afraid to sing in public due to a lack of musical talent, and shied away from occasions where he had to sing. After leaving a feast one night because he was too embarrassed to sing, he lay down in the pasture with the cattle to sleep. An angel appeared to him in a dream, calling him to sing. After refusing, he eventually decided to sing and when he did, he sang beautiful verses that had never been heard before. His songs were in the local vernacular language at a time when all other Christian songs were in Latin. Founding band members Cliff, Danielle, and Aaron decided on the name “Caedmon’s Call” after all three heard this story during the same week and thought it was fitting.