Search - Marc Hoffman :: Dream of God

Polished modern Christian music

Gary Dalkin | England | 07/21/2005

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Singer-songwriter-composer Marc Hoffman delivers an album of contemporary Christian songs with a soft-rock-soul-gospel vibe. Eight of the dozen numbers are self-penned, to which Hoffman adds covers of `There is a Quiet Place', `Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing', `Jesus Loves Me' and `On Eagle's Wings'.



Hoffman performs piano and electronic keyboards, while his band contribute additional vocals, organ, acoustic and electric guitars, drums and, giving an authentic North Carolinian touch (Hoffman is a native of the state), hammered dulcimer. The singer as an appealing light tenor voice which sits well in his own polished arrangements, with the title track having an especially catchy and effective heart.



The new material often has a singer-songwriter `60's feel, with mostly strong melodies and sufficiently substantial lyrics to prove a major relief to anyone frustrated by the endless choruses of much current Christian music. From the anthemic quality of the chorus of `In Peace' to the more gospel-like `Always Been There' the disc has something for just about any lover of mainstream Christian song. Hoffman's piano is usually to the fore - particularly on a number like `Eagle's Wings' - and he plays with a graceful ease, providing a sturdy rock upon which to sing His praises.



Decidedly different to Hoffman's other album available on Amazon, the instrumental piano disc `Long Way Home', and one clearly aimed squarely at the Christian audience. Anyone who buys `Dream of God' taking the title fully into account should be more than satisfied."