Dolphins: A Message of Love is quite simply one of the most beautiful albums I’ve heard in a long time. Frederic Delarue’s third album of original instrumental works is stunning in its richness, passion, and joy. Using Korg and Kurzweil synthesizers/keyboards/ samplers, Delarue has created vibrant, inspiring music, and some tracks feature the sounds of dolphins and the ocean. Several pieces are piano-based and some feature wordless vocals that give them a very ethereal sound. I really like Delarue’s first two albums, Voyage of the Soul and Soaring With the Angels, but think this is by far his best work to date. “Calming” and “soothing” are words that come to mind, but the music goes beyond that, as it can be listened to many times with full attention without getting “old,” and yet is very effective in the background. There aren’t many albums where I thoroughly enjoy every track, but I love this one! Delarue truly composes and plays from the heart, and his sincerity and emotional depth are compelling.

The CD opens with the sound of the surf, dolphin “clicks,” and heavenly voices. Ambient, floating sounds set the tone of the album, creating a sense of peace and tranquility. “Ballet of Light” is playful and free, with a simple piano melody and lovely string washes. “Sincere Communion” is a gorgeous piece, again piano-based with strings, voices, and soothing ambient sounds; it almost feels like dreaming on a cloud. “Marie de la Mer” is a lovely piece that must have been inspired by the Bach/Gounod “Ave Maria.” Heavenly! The first part of “Revelation” hints at a very slow Pachelbel “Canon,” and evolves into a very quiet and meditative piece that tugs at the heart while soothing the mind. Other titles include “Calm In My Spirit,” “Splash of Joy,” and “Angels of the Sea,” suggesting correctly that this music is peaceful, joyful, and deeply felt. In addition to the twelve tracks that were inspired by the dolphins, the CD includes two bonus tracks, “Dance of Love” and “Rejoice,” which feature more of a “dance mix” feeling with rhythm tracks and an upbeat, fun, spirit.

Sure to be on my Top 10 for 2004, Dolphins is available from www.fredericdelarue.com and amazon.com. Very highly recommended!