Ruth Bell Graham's favorite hymns...
May 1999 in Asheville, North Carolina, at Ruth Bell Graham's (aka Mrs. Billy Graham) 80th birthday party hosted by novelist, Patricia Cronwell and film star, Andie McDowell, guests were introduced to some very special music by a group of musicians from around the globe. Keyboardist/composer, Jeff Johnson, was joined by his long-time collaborator, Brian Dunning, the world renowned flutist from Dublin, Ireland. Violinist John Fitzpatrick from Belfast, Northern Ireland also appeared along with Portland, Oregon guitarist, Tim Ellis. The four are featured on, A Quiet Knowing - Canticles For The Heart.

Looking for some nice, quiet background music to listen to while you are alone with God in meditation? Or instrumental music to serve as a backdrop for Bible devotion time? Whatever the need, producer Jeff Johnson and friends have bestowed upon us a special blessing of 12 songs entitled A Quiet Knowing - Canticles for the Heart.

These canticles for the heart are steeped in Celtic and Appalachian influence. The instrumentalists went to painstaking trouble to make the sound as authentic as possible. Using a variety of flutes, whistles, and accordion, Brian Dunning's expertise is truly an added bonus. John Fitzpatrick's violin and viola on songs like "The Ninety and Nine" is superb. Gregg Williams' percussion is flawless and never overbearing, while the guitars of Tim Ellis and the bass of Phil Baker fill the pieces beautifully. Add to this outstanding mix piano and keyboards from Jeff and cello from Jami Sieber, and the result is simply breathtaking.

It doesn't matter if you don't know all the lyrics to these hymns. There's something much deeper to be felt in each rendition. Something inspiring, something spiritually uplifting, cleansing and soothing, that touches the heart and soul. This is truly remarkable music!

– JT's Music Reviews (November 2000)