Upright and Grand

A talented pianist who was a studio player for decades starting around 1920, had an elegant and flawless style that had some qualities in common with from 15 years later. made the sometimes complex pieces that he played sound effortless and he had a light and fluent touch. contains all but two of his piano solos of 1923-1930. Space ran out so the two most common numbers are absent. is joined by singer on the military drumming of on the final two numbers, and an ensemble called on the opening version of a selection that sounds similar to 's On this very definitive program, alternates novelty ragtime piano pieces with pop tunes of the 1920s. Most delightful are and although all of the selections are melodic, bouncy, and perfectly played. The music is jazzy, although falling into the gray area between jazz, 1920s pop, and mood pieces. The booklet is also excellent, making this a release of strong interest for fans of 1920s music. ~ Scott Yanow