"Ten Good Sermons" is Eugene Ruffolo's Spiritual and Sonic Masterpiece

With Ten Good Sermons, Eugene Ruffolo delivers a deeply introspective and exquisitely crafted musical journey that explores themes of forgiveness, friendship, and the search for meaning. Departing from his more familiar explorations of love and loss, Ruffolo has created a collection of poetic and sermon-like compositions that offer solace, insight, and inspiration. This latest offering from the accomplished singer-songwriter feels timeless, resonating with the heart while encouraging thoughtful reflection on life’s complexities.

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The album opens with "A World Minus One," a poignant and tender meditation on how loss reshapes our inner worlds. The song’s somber yet comforting tone immediately draws listeners in, setting the stage for an emotional journey. In contrast, "Late Bloomer" offers an uplifting celebration of the different paces at which we all grow, embracing the beauty of life’s unique rhythms. Together, these opening tracks establish the thematic and tonal diversity that defines Ten Good Sermons, making it a rich and immersive experience.

Each song on the album is imbued with Ruffolo’s lyrical brilliance, seamlessly combining introspection with universal themes. "Just To Be Alone" explores the spiritual value of solitude, capturing the peace found in quiet self-reflection. "Precious Stones" delivers a heartfelt message about treasuring relationships, urging listeners to cherish the people who matter most. The interplay between introspective moments and outward-facing messages of connection forms the emotional core of the album, offering a poignant balance that resonates deeply.

The production of Ten Good Sermons matches the sophistication of its songwriting. Recorded in various studios across New York City, Ruffolo partnered with Grammy-winning producer Ben Wisch, alongside Alan Zahn and Gunter Pauler, to create the album’s lush soundscapes. Several tracks were recorded live with The Cosmic Orchestra, Ruffolo’s side project featuring accomplished musicians such as Marc Shulman, Jon Preddice, and Chris Marshak. These live performances infuse the album with an organic energy, bringing a raw and immediate quality to its sound.

Ruffolo also enlisted some of the industry’s most talented session players, including Matt Rollings, Jay Leonhart, and Sean Pelton, whose contributions elevate the album’s musical depth. The mixing, handled by Ben Wisch and Dave O’Donnell—renowned for their work with artists like James Taylor and John Mayer—ensures that the record’s pristine sound enhances its emotional impact.

Ruffolo’s vocal performance throughout the album is a standout feature. His voice, described by Rolling Stone as “masculine and sensitive at the same time—with an utterly intriguing tone,” is the perfect vehicle for the album’s heartfelt and introspective themes. From soaring melodies to delicate whispers, Ruffolo’s delivery captures the full range of human emotion, drawing listeners into the heart of his music.

Beyond its immediate musical appeal, Ten Good Sermons feels like a natural progression in Ruffolo’s career, which has been marked by versatility and artistic depth. Over the course of eight critically acclaimed albums, he has earned a reputation as a gifted songwriter and performer. His debut album, A Fool for Every Season, was hailed as a “folk rock masterpiece,” and his collaborations with icons like Garth Brooks, Tony Bennett, and Spyro Gyra have further showcased his range and talent.

However, this record feels particularly special, as it captures the culmination of Ruffolo’s growth as both an artist and a storyteller. Its messages are timely, yet they transcend the moment, offering listeners wisdom and solace that will endure.

With Ten Good Sermons, Eugene Ruffolo provides more than just a collection of songs—it’s an invitation to reflect, connect, and find meaning in life’s triumphs and challenges. Each track reveals new layers with every listen, making it a record that rewards careful attention and repeated spins.

Ruffolo’s ability to weave universal themes into deeply personal narratives ensures that this album will resonate with a wide audience, appealing to both longtime fans and new listeners alike. Poetic, intimate, and profoundly moving, Ten Good Sermons is a masterful addition to Ruffolo’s discography and a must-listen for those seeking music that touches the soul.