Music acts as my comfort during uneasy moments so Larry Karpenko's *The River* offers me soothing comfort in times of restlessness. Karpenko's musical return shows his ability to create timeless melodies that stay in memory following the end of the composition. This reverent musical piece stems from the Christian faith of the composer who sought divine peace through his inspiration from the serene Shenandoah River while surrounded by an elaborate orchestral arrangement.
The song starts with light harp sounds and piano melodies which create an image of Virginia's flowing river valleys. His heartful and rich vocals lead us through the song with complete sincerity that reaches deep into our emotions. Through its strategic build the music combines jazz elements with piano charm and bass tones that escalate into a heavenly choir performance reaching a peak of inspiring greatness that sounds like heavenly messengers delivering hopeful messages. Through its perfect blending of traditional hymn *Shall We Gather at the River* the work creates a harmony between time periods which triggers both heartfelt sentiments and festive emotions.
The triumphant brass and handbell section elevates the piece before the melodious glissando of the harp finishes the piece in contemplative tranquility. The authenticity of emotions constitutes *The River* as its defining characteristic. The song emerged when Karpenko attended college and it connects with everyone who seeks refuge from everyday chaos which mirrors my personal journey to discover serenity.
Throughout The River Karpenko's personal artistic touch emerges through an intimate spiritual storyline which found inspiration from Steven Curtis Chapman's storytelling techniques. Kreation Records in Loma Linda, California served as the studio for the song which received additional depth and precision through opera singer Charles Reid and pastor Adriana Perera contributed their talents to the production. The upcoming work of Karpenko has created great excitement in me.
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