Amazing arrangements! What a wonderful collection of innovative interpretations of traditional hymns and masterpieces from J.S. Bach, Beethoven, Ellington and Horace Silver. Definitely refreshing and original!
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Collections of sacred music in jazz format are certainly nothing new. New Orleans bands have done it for decades. In recent years I’ve reviewed Steal Away by Hank Jones & Charlie Haden and When Saints Go Marching by pianist Bradley Sowash. They were both fine albums! 

If you liked the previously mentioned music as much as I did, you absolutely must listen to Rick Gallagher on his new disk Peace Be Still. Influenced by Vince Guaraldi, Red Garland, Bill Evans and George Shearing, Rick Gallagher is a pianist to be watched. While I shouldn’t refer to a collection of hymns and spirituals as a hell of a record, there is no better way to describe it. Peace Be Still grabs you by the ears and won’t let go. The CD has been played many times since it arrived five days ago. 

Rick Gallagher’s powerful attack is reminiscent of the great Don Shirley, the classically trained spiritual specialist of the 1950s. Gallagher tackles a number of traditional hymns of varying age but throws in jazz pieces by Duke Ellington and Horace Silver. Every note rolling off Gallagher’s fingers is as pure as jazz can be. Here is an emotional player with a background in classic jazz. He frequently plays with Pittsburgh’s Boilermaker Jazz Band. That particular group can play in a New Orleans revival style and has a knockout version of Burgundy Street Blues. 

Rick’s new CD is “anything but” New Orleans revival and is as fresh as tomorrow’s breakfast. There isn’t a mediocre track on the disk. It’s a gem to be savored! Sound samples are available at the artist’s website.
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Jazz artists have always expressed spirituality in their music, whether it be subtle inclusions or overt dedications of faith as found in John Coltrane’s masterpiece, A Love Supreme. Pittsburgh pianist Rick Gallagher's third release is a solo outing featuring a fresh reworking of popular hymns and spirituals. His previous two recordings, the debut Sweet Potato Eyebrows, and a holiday recording A Sleigh, A Song & A Baby Boy, both delivered appealing and thoughtful music with the pianist surrounded by solid ensembles. Peace Be Still continues to reflect Gallagher’s talent, albeit in a more personal and poignant setting. The thirteen selections are performed delicately as Gallagher reharmonizes the familiar melodies with his own ideas resulting in a relaxed feel that makes for meditative listening. His classy sound is ever present as he plays with eloquence and control, always keeping the pieces interesting yet never overstated. A touch of soul permeates his take on the Negro spiritual "Sweet Little Jesus Boy" and he reveals some nifty stride work on "This Little Light of Mine" which keeps the music flowing. Those looking for flamboyant interpretations will not find them here, as Gallagher's seeks a more balanced and empathetic path, accomplishing the goal of delivering soothing, contemplative, and inspiratonal music. - All About Jazz.com - Februaury 2005
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