Release Date: September 1, 2024
Label: Independent
Website
Rick Sparks' new EP, Devotion, is a musical journey underscored by healing and peace. Each track is designed to guide you towards a state of tranquility and spiritual awakening.
The title track, "Devotion," opens the recording. It reminds me of angels, heaven, and the beautiful chorus of voices coming together to lead you there. The softness of the synths and the wordless voices put you at ease instantly, and you know that the sounds were meant for a purpose, as mentioned on the cover art: healing and peace.
“River of Peace” is more than just a track. It's a continuation of your spiritual journey. The layers of keys and synths create a beautiful soundscape, with the wordless vocals adding an element of exceptional beauty. Each track in this EP is a stepping stone, guiding you to stay in that frame of mind and spirit you have just attained.
"My Refuge" starts with an acoustic piano, and angelic voices add atmosphere to create the healing spiritual experience many seek. The added layer of the synths gives the track a velvety and airy feel, which is how the music makes you feel once you let yourself fall into it and be the guiding light you may significantly need. This flexible music allows you to enjoy the audio dimensions or use it to relax and meditate, depending on what you are seeking.
"The Sacrifice" continues with the choir of angels and the layer of synths they seemingly melt into. At the same time, it will melt into your consciousness. The first thought that came to mind was Jesus's sacrifice for humanity to forgive all our sins. We could use his assistance these days. The music is consistent with many elements, leading you into another dimension of thought and being.
"Be Still and Know" starts with synths and the sound of a bell, and then the voices come in. It is interesting how everyone interacts differently with music. This track reminded me that I do not need a large ornate building to believe in a higher power because this music feels healing and spiritual. It's all I need to connect. The bell sounds several times as the end of the track draws near and closes out, reinforcing my connection to the music.
"The Road Home" begins with the voices emanating through your soul, and the soft synths again engage you. The road home means the afterlife when our spirit and consciousness leave our physical bodies to be with the loved ones that have crossed over. Since I was old enough to decipher that concept, it has been my belief. Music like this combines beauty and the essence of the artist's creative force and spirit. It can touch you and bring things into a more realistic focus, and your strength inside comes to the surface, and you know you will arrive home someday.
Rick Sparks has created an artistic, musical companion for anyone spiritual or seeking a new frame of mind or reference to ease their minds and souls. Devotion is a shining example of that and can be a valuable tool for all of us. Just start listening and decide for yourself.
Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Reviews Founder
August 20, 2024
Tracks:
1. Devotion (4:44).
2. River of Peace (4:46)
3. My Refuge (3:57)
4. The Sacrifice (3:49)
5. Be Still and Know (5117)
6. The Road Home (5:01)