Devotion is a beautiful collection of six original pieces by pianist/composer Rick Sparks. Intended to be "a refuge of healing and peace for these troubled times," the music was created with a combination of strings, angelic voices (no lyrics), piano, bells and flute, and offers a soothing escape from the stress and divisiveness of our current world situation. Quoting Rick: "It's very rare that I release two albums in one year (having just released Angeline in April), but I feel the need is great right now for an album of healing music." I agree! Inspired in part by the pastoral symphony of English composer, Ralph Vaughan Williams, the music moves slowly with grace and deep emotion.

Devotion begins with the title track, a gorgeous piece that seems to embody the Bible quotation on the back cover of the album: "Be still and know that I am God. (Psalm 46:10)" - a beautiful reminder to trust and to let go of the negativity that seems to surround us on a daily basis. "River of Peace" is also very still - almost ambient - with a slow and gentle melody that flows throughout the piece. "My Refuge" is one of two piano pieces on the album, and is a soulful beauty that also features strings and choral voices. "The Sacrifice," a prayerful and deeply-felt piece for strings and voices, almost seems to shimmer. "Be Still and Know" expresses a profound stillness and calm. Strings, voices, and clear bell sounds surround the listener with a reassuring tranquility sure to soothe and relax the soul. "The Road Home" suggests the anticipation of returning to the place we call "home," whether it's a physical house or a spiritual one. Voices and strings carry most of the piece, but there is a section for piano as well. It's a very soothing and uplifting close to a beautiful album.

Devotion is available as a CD from Rick Sparks' website. It can be downloaded or streamed from Amazon and Apple Music/iTunes, and can be streamed on many platforms including Pandora and Spotify. If you need some healing, relaxing music, this album is a sure thing!