Don Moen

“Hiding Place”

Integrity Music

12 tracks @ 65:31

            By my count, this is Don Moen’s 21^st release.  What I like about his music is that upon hearing it for the first time, I can understand the lyrics.  I’ve listened to so many worship and praise projects this past year where musically it’s interesting but I cannot figure out what the words are; that makes it pretty hard to decide if its worth singing along with the song.

            According to this record’s PR, “Hiding Place” represents Moen’s need to get away and hear from God.  That theme is represented in the title track and “With a Thankful Heart.” I liked the Pentecost theme in “Fresh Fire.”  “He Never Sleeps” is about the truth that God “never tires of hearing of our prayers” and is “always working in ways you cannot see.”  I also liked “Hear Us From Heaven.”

            I wish I could identify the female lead vocalist on “Revelation,” it’s a nice change of musical pace.  The use of piano and violin gives “Psalm 23” a very appropriate restful feel.  It would have been nice to know what other scriptural references might have inspired the songs on this otherwise fine disk.

            In addition to all of the music that he’s turned out, Moen is the president of Integrity Music and serves as executive vice president/creative director for Integrity Media.

            Note the running time.  There’s lots of good music here.

- Rob S.