Here's a unique little genre twist: gospel music without the rousing choirs, toe-tappin' shouting for the Lord, and intense single vocalists reaching the high notes for Jesus. Organist Ralph Lofton is one of the most called upon sideman in R&B and gospel music, having played for such artists as Bebe and CeCe Winans, Take 6, Barbara Mandrell, Albertina Walker, Shirley Caesar, Beverly Crawford, Stevie Wonder, Bobby Jones and New Life, and Whitney Houston. He's also Director of Music of Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Nashville. His concept is inspirational, church-based music for the quieter spiritual times to enhance a listener's prayer and meditation time. Though the project has a pleasant and mellow "smooth jazz-gospel" flavor to it overall, tunes like "Guide Me O Thou Great Jehovah" show a little extra pizzazz and funk. Others like "If It Had Not Been" and the hypnotic "In the Garden" are gentler and more reflective. There is a slight bit of variation in the way Lofton uses the piano harmony, but a little organ goes a long way and some of the tunes run into each other just a bit. A few of these songs are given better versions via the sax on Kirk Whalum's Hymns in the Garden. If you like gospel but don't have the energy to twist and shout, Quiet Times is the perfect solution. ~ Jonathan Widran, All Music Guide
Terry Baker, Ralph Lofton, Charles Willis, Simeon Baker
(5:48)
Credits
Ralph Lofton (Fender Rhodes), Terry Baker (Drums), Elizabeth Workman (Design), Ralph Lofton (Producer), Jeffrey Baggett (Mixing), Jeffrey Baggett (Engineer), Jeffrey Baggett (Mastering), Ralph Lofton (Arranger), Charles Willis (Guitar (Rhythm)), Simeon Baker (Guitar (Bass)), Ralph Lofton (Organ), Ralph Lofton (Piano), Terry Baker (Percussion), Elizabeth Workman (Art Direction)
