Into the Sunset is a collection of ten original piano solos composed and performed by James Michael Stevens, one of the most prolific composers on the planet. Very soothing and relaxing, this is the perfect soundtrack for the end of the day (or any time, really!) when it’s time to let go of daily stresses and unwind. Also the Music Department Chairman of Welch College in Galatin, TN, James’ original music includes choral, piano, organ and instrumental compositions as well as music for the school and church market and for network and cable television. His piano music is not overly flashy or complicated, making it very pleasant background music as well as music for more attentive listening.

Into the Sunset begins with the title track, a gentle musical massage for the mind that suggests the warm colors of a sunset over a lake or the ocean. “Memories in a Dream” is somewhat more bittersweet, as memories and dreams often are. The music is slow, open and heartfelt - lovely! “Time Drifting By” moves at about the speed of clouds in a gentle breeze - freely and untroubled. “Serenity Lake” picks up the tempo a bit, but is still very relaxed and serene. “A Still Space” is exceptionally spare, moving very slowly and freely with lots of open space between some of the notes. Gray dawns are something we are very familiar with here on the Oregon Coast, and the piece titled “Gray Dawn” is a graceful depiction of the movement of fog or morning cloud cover - cool and slightly melancholy. “Late Night Cafe” is very smooth and easy - no late-night coffee being consumed here! An interesting use of the piano’s damper damper pedal on “White Petals at Night” creates a shimmering effect similar to that of the moon shining on white flowers at night - very peaceful and beautiful! “Cry Me a Dream” feels something like a tender lullaby - warm and very soothing. The album ends with “Peace, My Love,” a sweet love song, pure and simple. Deeply emotional and over-flowing with sincerity, it’s an enchanting close to this lovely album.

Into the Sunset is available to stream and download on Amazon and Apple Music/iTunes as well as on many streaming platforms including Spotify and Pandora. Sheet music is also available at SheetMusicPlus.com and SheetMusicDirect.com.