Jun 05 2009
Derek Webb’s Stockholm Syndrome and Morse Code?
Derek Webb’s newest album, Stockholm Syndrome has generated quite the buzz among fans of the controversial artist, and around the web as well. His cryptic e-mails sent to his fan list and his facebook followers detail conflicts with his record label, but indeed these may be a hoax. Derek states on his site (derekwebb.com) that he’s removing himself from the internet for the time being, until things are sorted out. Now, Derek Webb in controversy, that’s no surprise to me, but the games that follow appear to be an elaborate scavenger hunt. When deciphering the second e-mail, the reader finds the name of a website (which shall remain unnamed for those of you who are planning on joining in on the hunt). When you get there you’ll find the rules for the hunt, and some clues about how it works. It all sounds pretty crazy to me, but I’ve found this to be an interesting little game. I’m always up for a puzzle, but the most recent clue I’ve found is one I never expected, and I can’t say I’ve ever seen an artist put this much effort and complication into giving his listeners a taste of what’s to come.
I’ve downloaded the many 2-3 second sound bytes of the “controversial” song, but can’t make heads or tails of them. However, his most recent clue is quite elaborate, and at first glance, slightly creepy. Please don’t read further if you don’t want to be spoiled!
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When you find the clue you need, you’re taken to a black and white video of someone driving down the highway (you can’t see the someone driving, all you see is the highway), while a voice over says, “The beginning is the end is the beginning.” There’s some beeping (which I’ve ascertained to be Morse Code), and a repeat of, “The beginning is the end is the beginning.” A little creepy at first glance. I’ve deciphered the Morse Code, which I’ll post here, but I won’t post the translation. If you’re really interested, I think you’ll try to figure it out for yourself. In the meantime, I think I have something to look forward to. Figure out the code and maybe you will, too. 
Blessings,
NB
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Hi NB,
Gosh, that’s interesting but FAR too much brainpower needed for the likes of me. Will you put us out of our misery at some point?
Clare
Hahaha!!! I like puzzles, so once I figured out it was Morse Code, I was keen on ciphering it out. I’m impressed with how far my nerditude extends. I’ll message you and tell you what it is.