Review by Fay McNeil
This new live album, based on Psalm 9l, is David’s tenth, and all the songs have been written by him and his friends and recorded in New Zealand.
The strongest theme is the significance of worship when we are in the dark times of trial and suffering. For example track 2, “We Live in the Shelter”, which is the theme song for the album, was written in Nelson at a time when David’s wife, Liz, was facing serious health issues. The song has a haunting refrain, affirming that God who we trust is our refuge and fortress. It features Wayne Huirua’s playing and production, and cellist Alex Smart.
All the songs are scripture-based and often inspired by the lives of biblical and modern-day saints. In the Heavenly Man book, the worship of the Chinese prisoner, who was strengthened by singing scripture, was the basis of track3, “As Long as I may Live”, with its answering phrase “I will only love my Lord”.
Track 7 – a new version of Fannie Crosby’s “Rescue the perishing” – was inspired by the lives of Mother Teresa and Jackie Pullinger.
This is a great album, with songs that will lead you into worship, interspersed with prayers, and closing with an instrumental epilogue as the instruments are played under the influence of the Holy Spirit. Every word is crystal clear and the presence of the Holy Spirit evident throughout. It will have a wide appeal, with tracks that have a rock feel, along with those that feature acoustic guitar, or strings and choir, more strongly.