Rick Gallagher

Item: Peace Be Still
Author: Barry Nothstine

Peace Be Still

(2005)

Reviewed by Barry Nothstine

Discogs Apple Music TIDAL Spotify

Label SerendipityThe Phantom Tollbooth2005

gospel jazz

My friends, sometimes we rock fans have to chill out (musically speaking). Yes, there is a time to turn down the rock, and turn up the mellow stuff. And I'm not talking Lawrence Welk-type mellowpants tunes -- I'm talking contemplative music that sooths the soul and sticks to the synapses.

Rick Gallagher has released an album of tunes I would classify as "beautiful jazz" on Peace Be Still -- Spirituals, Hymns and Songs for the Soul. Mr. Gallagher is an immensely talented jazz pianist, composer, and arranger. Gallagher also plays nationally with the Boilermaker Jazz Band, a traditional jazz group. His website lists many influences including Vince Guaraldi (of Charlie Brown Christmas fame -- one of my favorite CD's of all time), and while listening to Peace Be Still, I was reminded of Guaraldi's classical jazz style. These traditional instrumentals are a treat, with amazing arrangements featuring Gallagher's jaunty, jazzy (and even bluesy) piano styling.

Highly recommended for getting ready for sleepytime, or good old fashioned chill time.