Moving from a prominent player behind scenes to a spotlighted artist, New Jersey's keyboard master Richard "Big Rich" Wilson offers up The Life of a PK.

Over the years, the songwriter and instrumentalist has supported artists such as Bubby Fann & Unlimited Praise, Craig Hayes & The United Voices and Montel Thomas & The Voices, anchoring projects with his solid soulfully jazzed style.

On his Jubal Entertainment debut (listen to the audio), Big Rich steps into twelve cuts, joining with an array of vocal talent to deliver a project rife with laidback, soulful keyboard-based Gospel jazz works that give insight into his ministering heart.

The old school flow of "By and By" features Shira "Shi-Shi" Johnson with Scott T., as Big Rich moves in and out with subtle bursts of keyboard colors.

"Wonderful Words" simmers with Wilson's keys darting softly under Lisa J's marvelously soulful vocal reflection, as the cut expresses the power of God's Word.

Contrastingly, "Higher Than I" shows Big Rich adept at an increased tempo. SHOWTYME moves his vocals over the lyrics, telling that we 'can go to the Rock that is higher than I." A small vocal ensemble makes its mark on cue from the lead vocalist.

On "Old Rugged Cross", the comforting hymn is shuttered with soft jazz stylings courtesy Big Rich and jazz pianist Farid Barron. The reprise ushers in a back and forth continuing musical conversation between the two keyboardists.

"Blessed Jesus" begins with a short sustain of strings before Melda Grant brings in her smoldering alto to praise our Saviour in a slowly unwinding contemplation using the well-known melody.

Perfect for those reflective times so crucial to balancing our lives, Big Rich's Life of a PK hits the spot.



Two song snips from Big Rich's album are available as RealAudio downloads. If you don't have RealAudio, be sure to obtain your free RealAudio player software first, by clicking on the blue RealAudio icon on the right.

To download the song snips, simply click on the highlighted text below, let stream on RealAudio, and enjoy.

• "By and By"
  
  
• "Higher Than I"