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These days, only a handful of living artists can make ragtime music sound truly exciting. Chicago's Reginald R. Robinson is one of them. On
Euphonic Sounds, he performs "Joplin Song Fragment"--a never-before-recorded composition that he discovered in a photo of Scott Joplin's piano. From that intriguing opener, Robinson launches into great rags by Joplin, Louis Chauvin, Joseph Lamb, Joe Jordan, and James Scott. His technique is impeccable, his tempos are quick, and he attacks the piano with gusto. In a handful of his original compositions, we can hear just how far Robinson has taken ragtime. His "Space Coaster Ride" is quick-tempoed and gorgeous, with hints of blues; "Truly Yours" is a lovely sentimental number; and "The Daredevil's Gallop" is a rollicking good time. Great recorded sound captures it all. For rag lovers, this is a must-have disc.
--Jason Verlinde