A Corner of Time is dedicated to music too good to throw away, forget or poorly reproduce. It acknowledges the pioneers of American music and includes jazz, ragtime, blues, western swing and more. Also featured are the works of newer artists whose efforts are based in the traditions of vintage music. Interviews will be held when guests become available.

This web page is an opportunity to share the music I love and believe in.

• Click here for reviews of old and new recordings you may wish to add to your collection.
• Here are some links to related websites more will be added as space & time permits.

My interest in music goes back over sixty years. From childhood memories of hot summer nights in St Louis with jazz and blues drifting in through open windows, to Saturday nights, in an Arkansas farm house, listening to the Grand Ole Opry.

If you have a comment, request or suggestion about Looking Back, or a question about one of the guests or special programs, please e-mail me at: corneroftime@kvmr.org.

Hope you enjoy. Cheers, Jim

August 8, 9 and 10, 2003 are the dates for the 5th Annual Sutter Creek Ragtime Festival in historic downtown Sutter Creek in the heart of California's Gold Country on Highway 49 (between Jackson and Plymouth). The festival more or less takes over this pearl of a town with 5 music venues all within walking distance of each other.

In 1982, the Sacramento Ragtime Society (SRS) was formed as a grass-roots effort to perform and promote Ragtime. Still gathering together on a monthly basis to play for each other and to share our love for this wonderful music. Now have over 150 members nationwide, in addition to monthly meetings, they publish a monthly newsletter providing a calendar of ragtime events throughout California.

Founded by ragtime enthusiasts in Fresno, California in the 1980s, the West Coast Ragtime Society is a non-profit, organization established for the preservation and promotion of Ragtime and vintage American music. The Society produces the the West Coast Ragtime Festival in Sacramento, California. This year's 17th annual Festival will be held November 21-23, 2003.

The world of Ragtime and Jazz is overflowing with extraordinary musicians, composers and historians.

This band was one of my "top five" favorites at the 2007 Sacramento Jazz Jubilee. It doesn't matter if it's foot stomping and rowdy or smooth and melancholy, they just have that perfect "touch", and the usual result when a band made up of "all stars" turns it loose and does it their way it's excellent. They have that comfortable appearance and sound that says, "this is my passion, this is what I do". I sure hope the "Migrant Jazz Workers" are back in 2008.

---Jim Diffey

This is of course, a follow up to All Stars Vol. 1. The great jazz performed in this album continues the high standard set in Vol. 1. The smooth comfortable very personal feeling brought out in each number still says, "This is my passion, this is what I do".

I have enjoyed bands like this for over sixty years, since I first heard Louis Armstrong, Benny Goodman, Count Basie and all the other great artists whose passion was their music.

Again, I hope the "Migrant Jazz Workers" return in 2008.

---Jim Diffey

Thank goodness this very talented lady is dedicated to music of the early 20th century and knows exactly how to play it. She is preserving, superbly, an impressive amount of these early American treasures. Several of her albums contain selections you don't hear too often these days. But thanks to Squeek's skill and dedication, this cornucopia of wonderful old songs is ours to enjoy and pass along to new generations of music lovers. I don't have room to list each of these jewels, so browse her website and enjoy.

---Jim Diffey

It's no secret that the Carl Sonny Leyland Trio is one of the best bands in the country of any size playing any genre of music. Their popularity at concerts and festivals testify to that.

What I like about this album is their attention to variety. Almost every style of music that is related to each other one way or another (ragtime, barrelhouse, stride, boogie woogie, jazz, blues, etc.) are expertly covered, and in the tradition of this music, they rarely play the same song the same way twice at concerts, another reason why the halls are always full.

The CSLT stands head and shoulders above their competition and I think this is their best album to date. The thoughtful play list and matchless musicianship have been kicked up a notch (Again!). You can tell this is their life's passion. Fine job boys

---Jim Diffey

This is Sonny's latest solo album and I think it may be his best. The play list covers everything from Jimmy Yancey to Irving Berlin to May Aufderheide to Jimmy Rogers. As a W.C. Handy fan I thought I would like the Beal Street Blues cut best, but I still haven't come up with a definite, favorite track. That means the album consists of no less than twenty distinct winners.

Sonny's expertise shines from beginning to end. The music coupled with Sonny's playing and singing is relaxing and soothing yet toe-tapping. You can't sit still to the point you just can't wait to dance, and it all happens at the same time. (How does he do that?) Sonny, you did it again, two thumbs up.

---Jim Diffey

This latest release from the MMO is their best effort yet. A larger orchestra on this recording adds a rich fullness to what was already an exceptional one.

The intelligent play list makes it even better. From La Cumparsita, to Bright Shines the Moon a (Russian folk tune), the music becomes more interesting with each song.

There is no question blue chip musicians have populated this orchestra since 1900. Once more their talent, dedication and passion for this music, makes the album a real winner. (Especially for the listeners)

Wine isn't the only thing that gets better with age. The Bon Amie Musical Circle started something remarkable back in 1900 when they created the MMO. For mandolin orchestra music lovers, this is a band for the ages. Their second century is off to a great start.

---Jim Diffey

The MMO was formed on Dec. 6, 1900 in Milwaukee, and is the performance branch of the Bonne Amie Musical Circle, the oldest mandolin & guitar organization in America.

Five specific instruments form what is known as "Plectrophonics" and perform half of the songs on the CD. Other arrangements use a dozen or more artists. The music featured on this album is mostly by Milwaukee area composers and musicians. It is all part of movement to preserve the music and history of the Milwaukee area. (It's a first-class job of preserving music history)

The play list very good, and the choice of rhythms and tempos are enjoyable and expertly played.

This fine CD showcases excellent musicians who play from the heart as they demonstrate the essence of their life's passion.

---Jim Diffey

We found ourselves being hypnotized by a young man and his guitar, just a few yards down the hill from the Maritime Museum in Victoria B.C.

Ted isn't just good he is gifted. With his superior skills he covers the music of Bob Dylan, Sinead O'Connor, John Lennon, John Prine, Gordon Lightfoot, Buffy Sainte- Marie and many others. His own "Angelina" with its smooth and intricate guitar work, will sooth your soul and bring back memories of someone very special. Bongo's Lament (Throw Me My Ball) is about a day in the life of a dog. I would call it bitter sweet sprinkled with some good belly laughs.

This excellent guitarist and brilliant lyricist will be around for a long, long time. When we return to Victoria, our first stop will be where ever Ted is performing.

---Jim Diffey

We first encountered Levi (Daddy Vi) Barnes, Wilbert Smith III, Clifford Miller and James Butler across the street from the famous fish market on Pike Street in Seattle.

They were working on the sidewalk, singing to a crowd that materialized in seconds. They were singing the best gospel music I've heard in twenty-five years. The crowd was dancing around like popcorn on a stove, joining in on most of the songs and generally going bananas. The scene was organized mayhem and joy.

To say they are crowd pleasers is an understatement. They are fabulous entertainers, and this CD shows even more of their musical talent.

They affected me the same way Fats Domino did the first time I saw him "live". They take over the "happy side" of your brain and make the memory of their smiling faces, soul pleasing music and blues chasing attitude last forever.

Good "stuff."

---Jim Diffey

The F.F.J.B. is the Youth Learning Program of the Potomac River Jazz Club a 501(c) 3 organization, and is made up of high school and college age musicians who are taught how to perform the various styles of traditional jazz.

This CD represents the band's 12th, 13th, and 14th seasons. It includes performances at the Kennedy Center's Millennium Stage, Carter Barron Amphitheatre, a one-week tour of the United Kingdom that included the 100 Club in London, the Whitley Bay Jazz Festival in Newcastle, and a Jazz Club in Edinburgh. Also repeat performances in the New Orleans French Quarter Festival and at Preservation Hall.

It's impossible to list the band's credentials here. On the CD you will hear the young peoples budding passion for Jazz, and realize what a first class job the P.R.J.C. has done. Their effort, and this band are a huge triumph in preserving an original American art form, "Jazz". This band is hot.

---Jim Diffey

If you missed the 2007 Sacramento Jazz Jubilee (# 34), here is the perfect way to enjoy some of what you missed.

Featured on this fine CD is nineteen groups & bands, playing selections that include traditional jazz, ragtime, blues, zydeco, western swing, big band swing and more.

The artists struttin' their "stuff" on this album have at least one thing in common, besides being world-class entertainers, they are playing their hearts out just so we can hear and understand what their life's passion is all about.

One thing is for sure, whether you were at the Jubilee, or have to settle for a CD, after the smoke clears, we are all winners. This is a fine album with a well-balanced play list. I like it more every time I hear it.

In one word, its "magnarvolous", well done

---Jim Diffey

Johnny Maddox told us "Dixieland Blues" was his favorite album. I can see why. This album is hot from start to finish. The goal was to release a product that was "pedal to the metal" and "let it all hang out"!

It worked. Johnny is teamed up with seven of the best musicians ever. Each musician exhibits his talent and passion for his instrument and the roll it plays in the success of the band in each performance. I.e. the drummer illustrates why the drums are nicknamed "the engine room", they really do drive the band. You can feel the emotion building in every song as each instrument adds its voice to the mix. The result is one of the best albums I've heard in ten or twelve years. It's a musicians delight, and the listeners are the winners. I like every track.

---Jim Diffey

The Rosebud Café was to classic ragtime what New Orleans was to jazz.

Located in St. Louis at 2220 Market St. just ten blocks from where I lived the Rosebud became the gathering place of America's finest ragtime composers and musicians. Together at the Rosebud they played; "jammed", shaped, fashioned, refined and preserved an original American art form.

Pianist Milton Kaye has captured the essence of seven of the great ragtime composers, presenting the style, sound and character of such artists as Arthur Marshall, Joe Jordan, Scott Joplin and my favorite Tom Turpin (founder of the Rosebud, and whose "Harlem Rag" in 1897became the first rag by a black composer to be published).

Ragtime at the Rosebud is a very important gift to the movement that preserves our musical heritage

---Jim Diffey

Gaslight Square in St. Louis was a two square block collection of bars, coffee houses, restaurants, antique dealers and shops centered on Boyle and Olive Streets. It was a gathering place for artists, writers and musicians and one of America's top spots for entertainment and food.

Names like The Crystal Palace, The Opera House, Golden Eagle, Black Horse, Butterscotch Lounge, Bustles and Bows, Silver Dollar, Mr. "D's" and dozens of new fast rising stars tantalize the imagination.

This CD is a perfect cross section of the music heard for decades in Gaslight Square. The magical music and fine performances by several of the artists who were there, is certain to create memories of Gaslight Square, even if you've never been there. As you stand on the "Corner of Time", you will be caught up "In the Afterglow" of Gaslight Square

---Jim Diffey

When the first riverboat the Zebulin M. Pike arrived in St. Louis in 1817 it marked the beginning of the "Riverboat Era". Soon it was 100 steamboats a day lining the cobblestone levee. It was the Mississippi Mark Twain came to know.

The music that was born in this era includes Early Jazz from New Orleans that made its way up the river to St. Louis where it mixed with Ragtime and became Dixieland.

On this CD four remarkable groups and two masters of the calliope give excellent performances that are straight from the decks of a great riverboat. This is American musical heritage at it's best.

Hats off to Gaslight Records, and the individuals and organizations, involved in restoring, recreating and preserving the musical history of St. Louis and the Missouri Valley. Well done.

---Jim Diffey

I've been listening to jazz for sixty plus years, and this has to be one of the hottest bands I have ever heard. Their musical skills and enthusiasm are unmatched. Audience participation in to numbers at this years Sacramento Jazz Jubilee, and later coming off stage to march around the room with audience members while continuing to play, made them a tremendous hit with the audience. (No less than three standing ovations, the one at the end lasting for six minutes). A pole of American Rag readers recently pronounced The High Sierra Jazz Band the second most popular traditional jazz band ever, just behind Turk Murphy's' band. Well I say look out, here comes a band from Connecticut that's destined to place in the top 5% on that list, The United States Coast Guard Dixieland Jazz Band.

---Jim Diffey

First class talent and straight from the heart performances fill Janet Klein's latest release. It's simply titled OH! But don't that fool you. Janet and the Parlor Boys are at their finest (as usual). They perform these "obscure, naughty and lovely" songs from the 1910's, 20's and 30's as no one else in the business can. Janet and the Boys are dedicated to discovering, playing, promoting and preserving this truly unique American art form. What a wonderful job they have done on OH! On behalf of all of us who benefit from their hard work, I say "Thank You" for yet another jewel.

---Jim Diffey

It's been four years since Carl Sonny Leyland's last solo CD "Gin Mill Jazz". Well, he's baaaaack, and with a dynamite collection of blues, boogies, rags, stomps and a couple of standards that will take you back to days gone by.

Sonny is a master of the piano as well as the musical styles heard on this album. It rocks from start to finish and is well complimented by the two journeys into the past. Saving Albert Ammons' "Boogie Woogie Stomp" for last was a brilliant stroke. Hearing the boogie-woogie of a giant from the past played by a giant of today will leave you quietly saying, "Please let there be a Wild Piano Vol. 2".

---Jim Diffey

For "The Real Sound Of Ragtime", Brad Kay has assembled an impressive collection of music recorded on cylinders and discs. These ancient performances are in remarkable condition and are re recorded on to CD with such care and skill, that hearing them for the first time, you may not believe the clarity and lack of any serious noise.

The recordings heard here date back not only to the birth of ragtime, but the recording industry as well, and demonstrate how the music was performed in its era.

To pique your interest, imagine listening to music on recording labels such as Zonophone, North American Cylinder, Columbia, Berliner, Victor, Emerson, Edison and French Pathé. This is without a doubt, standing on "The Corner of Time".

Brad Kay and Suberbatone Records have done a superb job on this album. Thanks Brad for sharing your treasures with us.

---Jim Diffey

"Produce an album of real New Orleans four-beat traditional jazz". That was the mission when the Goodtime Levee Stompers set out to record this album. Well, mission accomplished. This is New Orleans Jazz, absolute and true. The influence of Kid Ory and George Lewis is reflected throughout the album.

New Orleans Traditional Jazz is the musicians' passion, and they perform their licks and solos in the New Orleans style, making the album complete and in true N.O. style.

Kudos to Jerry Kaehele (tmb), Walter Yost (cor), Earl Scheelar (cl), Don Kidder (bj), David McCartney (b) and Henk Wagner (d). They have done (as I like to say) a fine job in preserving an original American art form, New Orleans Jazz.

---Jim Diffey

In their latest offering, "Tell Me", Jerry Kaehele and GLS have once more captured the essence of true New Orleans Jazz. This is their best effort to date.

The musicians express their feelings for this great music with their fine solos and tight playing as a unit.

I gave this album my acid test. While I was listening I closed my eyes and suddenly saw myself standing somewhere on "The Corner of Time". Perhaps Bourbon Street. Well done.

The Goodtime Stompers: Jerry Kaehele (Kaylee) (trombone, leader) Earl Scheelar (clarinet) Don Kidder (banjo) Jim Cumming (bass) Henk Wagner (drums)

Southern Calif. Friends: Ted Thomas (cornet) Gordon Wilson (piano)

Special Guest: Bob Jackson (trumpet)

---Jim Diffey

Gifted musicians are usually well versed in more than one genre of music. The RCSQ from Canada is no exception. This CD illustrates the talent and versatility of the boys, and exhibits their undeniable skills.

This remarkable selection of songs covers a variety of musical forms. From Zez Confrey rags to a J.S. Bach air, to a Jerome Kern show tune to a traditional Irish Suite, and on and on.

Emotion is also a vital part of this album and is wide ranging. The sultriness of "Harlem Nocturne", and the sensitivity of "Smoke Gets In Your Eyes" the dulcet tones of "Danny Boy", to the batucada rhythm of "Brazil", is just the beginning.

Outstanding job boys,

---Jim Diffey

Ruben Romero is one of the finest Classical, Spanish and Flamenco guitarists in the world. After almost twenty albums plus concerts and appearances all around North America, "Flamenco Fire" is Ruben's first live concert release. It is well worth waiting for. I urge you to join Ruben on a magical tour of gypsy music from the south of Spain. You'll remember it forever.

One of many highlights in the album comes when flamenco guitarist Roberto Gonzales joins Ruben for a "Bulerias de Santa Fe" and Ruben's famous four-movement suite, "The Four Seasons of Love."

This CD was created as a special project for the Southwest Indian Foundation Catalogue. For more information about the catalogue and the Foundation visit: www.southwestindian.com

This is beautiful music, performed only as Ruben Romero can. I am a long time fan of Ruben's; and his magic just gets stronger and more enjoyable each time I hear it.

---Jim Diffey

The Porcupines have released many fine albums over the years. "Pig Ankles" is the best yet. The superior playing they are known for and a new energy level is noticeable right off the bat.

Robyn and Steve Drivon plus Susan Desper have joined Petra and Bub Sullivan and Elliott Adams, to give the music an enjoyable new "spark".

The delightful music and a well thought out play list should make "Pig Ankles" very popular with ragtime enthusiasts and historians everywhere (as well as people who appreciate music you just don't hear everyday)

Once again the Porcupines have been successful with an outstanding effort to preserve an American treasure, Ragtime. Thank you Porcupines, you make us proud

---Jim Diffey

Tom has released several fine albums over the years and I have listened closely to them many times. Lessie and I were thrilled when Tom played in our own living room to the delight of a group of friends and neighbors.

I have always been impressed by Toms playing, and felt fortunate to have watched him grow into a fine pianist. On "Rewind" you can clearly hear that he has developed the touch of an artist.

In my opinion, Toms latest CD, "Rewind" is his best effort to date. The selections are a perfect cross section of melodies and rhythms. His playing fits this definition of "artist", "a person of special skills". Tom is indeed a person of very special skills, and I feel Tom has taken his place beside the best of ragtime's artists from any era.

---Jim Diffey

Jack and Chris Bradshaw brighten the Sacramento Ragtime Society's monthly meetings with two impish smiles. It's always a pleasure to see them.

But behind the smiles are two very talented and dedicated artists. I have always liked four-hand piano music and this is what they excel at. Their new album "Takes 2" is a superb presentation of piano four-hands. The play list made up of a nice variety of composers coupled with hours and hours of hard work, has resulted in a real winner. Congratulations Jack and Chris.

If you enjoy music of the ragtime era and first class piano work, "Takes 2" should live in your collection.

---Jim Diffey

This delightful album is made up of what is sometimes called "automatic music". Thirty-five selections divided between and played by no less than seven different mechanical instruments. From a Wurlitzer Pianino, to a Coinola, to a Seeburg "KT Special". The collection of tunes on this album is a real "find". I have never heard at least half the songs. What a hoot and a treasure.

These fine instruments are from the collection of John Mottoros of Sutter Creek, CA. You will not believe the quality sound they produce. I am blown away. This album will be in my collection forever.

Hats off to John and Nadine Mottoros, John Haskey and Lewis Motisher for their dedication, patience and hard work. On behalf of the people who will enjoy this fine album, I say "thank you" for sharing your awesome gift, a fun and accurate presentation of an important part of our musical history.

---Jim Diffey

The Washboard Wizardz are masters of a musical style sometimes called "novelty music". I don't like that term because it detracts from the outstanding skill required by musicians who play this music.

As "maestros of hillbilly jazz" the Wizardz display their superb skill and deep dedication to their music. Kurt Abell is the "Banjo Man", Bill "Mountain Willy" Reinhart a New Orleans Jazz bass man, "Blackwood" Tom Schmit on clarinet and sax, and Steve Drivon on trombone and slide whistle.

The Wizardz play in the style and spirit of all the greats going back to the 30's and 40's. If there is a washboard hall of fame, the Washboard Wizardz will be there beside the Hoosier Hotshots and the other giants of what I call "FUN AND HAPPY" music. Great job boys.

---Jim Diffey

Janet Klein and Her Parlor Boys latest CD, "Living In Sin", is truly "scandalous". This well planned collection of "obscure, naughty & lovely songs" from the 1910's, 20's and 30's is probably their best effort yet. (Hard to believe they could top the last four)

Every song is a gem, with its own story. (In 1926, "How Could Red Riding Hood" became the first song banned from radio.) On every song the lyrics are clever, with fun and danceable music. All expertly performed by Janet and the Boys. I couldn't choose a favorite song, so I am moving the album to the top of my "favorites" list. I think you will too.

"Circle of Dreams," is a complete departure from Ruby's first album, "Warmin' Up With Ragtime Ruby."

This was a good move as it showcases still more of Ruby's talents. She composed eight of the thirteen songs on the album, and displays a gentle yet masterful touch on every song. Her own compositions of "The Piano Player (Lives Forever), "The Devil Made Me Do It" and "Circle of Dreams" plus her arrangements of "Hatikvoh", "Georgia On My Mind" and "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" illustrate the range of her talents. The maturity heard on this album goes far beyond her thirteen years.

Travel back to the spring of 1904, as the gates of the Louisiana Purchase Exposition open. The seven-month long world's fair showcases many types of music popular at that time.

For the first time, Ragtime talent from allover the United States came together to exchange ideas and play wherever they could. Ragtime was still restricted to bars and other small venues. The Fair changed all that with dozen of areas set up for ragtime. This brought the music to the general public, and especially to young people.

This album features a wonderful group of musicians who specialize in music of the early 20th century. They capture the spirit of 1904 perfectly.

A lithograph on the liner cover looks across the Fairs "Great Basin". If you look at the picture then close your eyes, you will hear our musical roots being played precisely as they were in 1904.

This CD is a collection of classic, hand played ragtime, jazz and blues piano rolls. They were created by some of the greatest pianists of 1915 to 1935. The rolls are like being present as these giants of the keyboard perform live.

There are three numbers by Jelly Roll Morton, three by Thomas "Fats" Waller, three by Scott Joplin, two by James P. Johnson, three by Eubie Blake, one by Jimmy Blythe, and one by Jimmy Blythe with Charles Clark.

The accuracy of piano rolls is amazing. If you would like to hear these great pioneers as they sounded then, you might want to add this album to your collection.

John Petley is a native of London, England, who now lives in Germantown Maryland, and works as a professional piano tuner. A formally trained pianist who taught himself to play ragtime, John quickly became a favorite with his peers and ragtime music fans.

A quote from John says it all. "This CD was conceived in an upbeat atmosphere and played with a happy heart. Since I heard my first ragtime recording as a child, this music with its tricky syncopations and infectious rhythms never fails to get my feet tapping and put me in feel good mood" (Amen-jd)

This new album is very well played. I like every track. It's easy to see why John is so popular at the many festivals and events where he performs. You can feel the "happy heart" and "upbeat atmosphere" from the first note to the last.

David Reffkin formed the American Ragtime Ensemble on June 4, 1973. The full ensemble includes strings, winds, piano and drums. Only the strings and piano appear on this recording.

The original tape was recorded in 1975, and survived nearly 30 years before being released on this CD.

Ragtime chamber music reflects the merger of the traditional ragtime form with the older tradition of chamber music. This works well since many ragtime orchestrations were designed for 12, 16 or more players.

The ensembles repertoire includes concert, dance and theatre music of the 1880's to 1920's. This "salon music", it is made up of music from over 25 countries.

Their mission is to locate and "rescue" rare orchestrations from extinction. They re-create the era at the same time. Nice job.

With this wonderful CD, David and his ensemble have captured moments in our musical past perfectly.

In this their third album of rags, cakewalks, two steps and other fun music from the Ragtime era, the Porcupines score all 10's. (To no one's surprise)

The selections featured here are enhanced by the crew's superb skill, and enthusiasm for their craft and subject. No one does it better. They preserve the sound and spirit of the past perfectly. Their artistry and love for what they do show through in each cut.

10 ragtime jewels.
7 songs are not ragtime. #s 2, 4, 6, 9, 12, 14 (jazz), 17 (jazz)

Behold, the fine musicians who are The Porcupines;

• Bub Sullivan, mandolin & vocals
• Robyn Drivon, tuba
• Ray Bauer, percussion
• Julia Riley, flute and piccolo
• Elliott Adams, piano
• Petra Sullivan, violin

Absolute Blues 1 & 2 is a collection of recordings that go back over twenty years. A list of the artists on these two cd's is a stronger message than any review I could write.

Get a load of this, Duke Robillard, Jay McShann, Jimmy Witherspoon, Lowell Fulson, Jim Byrnes, Rita Chiarelli, David Clayton Thomas, Amos Garrett, King Biscuit Boy, Walter Shakey Horton, Downchild Blues Band, Maria Muldaur, Bobby Charles, The Holmes Brothers, Doug Sahm, Professor Longhair, Dutch Mason, Long John Baldry, Johnny Shines and more.

It doesn't get any better. Gratitude and praise go to Stony Plain for twenty years of persistence in recording the best of the best. And we are the beneficiaries of all their hard work.

Lorraine breathes new life into great Fats Waller classics by giving them brilliant and clever lyrics. She is a wizard with words. Humorous, entertaining and the equal of any lyricist I can think of.

Then she sings them like no one else in the business today can. The fine musicians she works with should add to the staying power of this recording. This creative album will please any jazz fan.

I like every track. It's impossible to find a favorite. You try--JD

Here are twelve original songs, music by Eddie Arkin, Charlie Barnet, Harry Carney, Duke Ellington, David Benoit, Russell Ferrante, Paul Grabowsky, Don Grusin, Skippy Martin, Irvine Mills, Johnny Mandel and Larry Steelman. With lyrics and vocals by Lorraine Feather.

Café Society is jazz at its very best, and no one does it as well as Lorraine and the marvelous musicians she works with. They are as smooth and flawless as a Super Bowl winner or World Series champ. It's nice to hear the best do what they do best. They sound like they are having a ball, and that always adds to the listeners enjoyment.

"Café Society" assures us that jazz is alive and well in the new millennium. This CD is in my "good box" to stay. - JD

John Gill hails from Perth Australia. He is easily one of the finest Ragtime, Stride and Early Jazz piano players in the world. A performance by this accredited Bosendorfer Concert Artist will include music of Scott Joplin, Eubie Blake, Willie "The Lion" Smith, Joseph Lamb, James P. Johnson and Fats Waller. It becomes a show that will hold you spellbound.

John's album "The Entertainer" contains an excellent variety of songs and rhythms, showcasing music by Scott Joplin, Johan Strauss, George Gershwin, W.C. Handy, Rogers & Hammerstein, Fats Waller, Badarewska and others. There seems to be no end to what John can play. (And that's good for us).

I feel the music of this fine artist belongs in your collection. (It's in mine) Jim Diffey

In 1915, a saxophone craze began that spread across North America. The Six Brown Brothers (William, Tom, Alec, Percy, Verne and Fred) have been (arguably) credited with starting it.

They each had gained experience playing in circus bands and with traveling minstrel shows. Tom had a flair for impressions that included John Philip Sousa, a pregnant bride, King Tut and many others. Their popularity lasted until 1933 when the band broke up and like thousands of show business casualties of the Great Depression, the Brothers went their separate ways. The sax craze they helped start in turn helped create the wonderful sounds of jazz, swing and bop. But it began when ragtime was king, and the Brown Brothers deserve a big chunk of the credit for the madness.

Over 80 years later, The Royal City Saxophone Quartet has released this wonderful tribute to the Six Brown Brothers. Expertly played with style and enthusiasm I am sure the Brothers would approve of. This is the type of album I never get tired of hearing. It is happy, upbeat and great fun. It is also true to the music of the time. I would call it a musical history lesson. The musicians apparently love what the do because it shows in every song.

Hats off and thanks to R.C.S.Q. for this first class job in preserving a musical heritage. - JD

Stony Plain Records started in Edmonton, Alberta, on Holger Petersons kitchen table. The next 25 years, has seen the release of over 280 albums that include blues, classic R&B, folk, country, blue grass, rock & roll and music that is impossible to label, classify and place in neat little boxes.

"25 Years," is a two CD set and is a cross section of the best of the best recordings released over twenty-five years. Some of the artists heard here include The Paperboys, Steve Earle, Emmy Lou Harris, Ian Tyson, Doug Sahm & Queen Ida, Duke Robillard, Rosco Gordon, Lowell Fulson, Long John Baldry, King Biscuit Boy, Billy Boy Arnold, Jimmy Witherspoon, Maria Muldaur and many more.

These recordings by so many world-class artists are a testimonial to the quality and high standards of Stony Plain Records. Here's to another "25 Years." - Jim Diffey

"Put a Flavor to Love" is the latest gem from Janet Klein and Her Parlor Boys. They have discovered an assortment of musical goodies from movies, Vitaphone film shorts, lost sound tracks, rare test pressings etc. that have fallen into exactly the right hands.

Janet and "The Boys" use their wizardry to create twenty-two prime recordings with a wide assortment of vocals, instrumentals, rhythms and tempos. Janet's voice as always, is captivating, and she lays out some nice "hot licks" on her ukulele. The Parlor Boys are absolutely "The Cats Pajamas" especially when playing this music.

It all comes together in an album that should be the centerpiece for your collection of early twentieth century music.

The Porcupines play ragtime, cakewalks, rag songs, tangos, waltzes and other period pieces from the turn of the last century. The emphasis is on forgotten, interesting, toe-tapping gems seldom heard anywhere else. Their sound is early folk inspired ragtime of the Midwest and the Mississippi Valley.

The Porcupines are a hit everywhere they go. They are a living breathing ragtime treasury that truly captures the spirit of ragtime music and its history.

Meet the brilliant musicians that are The Porcupine Ragtime Ensemble
Elliott Adams--piano
Julia Riley--flute & piccolo
Petra Sullivan--violin
Bub Sullivan--mandolin & vocals
Bob Dashiel--tuba
Ray Bauer--percussion
(And occasional last minute guests, friends or passersby)

This album contains a wonderful selection of nineteenth and early twentieth century pieces. Performed with the musical purity, quality and passion, that seems ingrained in the world of ragtime.

Trebor Tichenor (piano), world-renowned ragtime scholar, heads this fine family trio. He began performing professionally in 1960. In 1961 he co-founded the St. Louis Ragtimers band, which celebrated its fortieth anniversary at the WCRS Festival in Nov. 2002. His credentials are limitless.

Trebor's daughter Virginia (piano) has been playing ragtime virtually all of her life. She is as popular among her peers as she is with ragtime fans.

Marty Eggers (piano & double bass violin), Virginia's husband rounds out the trio. Marty is a five star musician on both piano and double bass violin.

The selections on this album are not only extremely entertaining, but also a toe tapping history lesson.

(510) 655-6728
marty_eggers@juno.com

Ragtime has been the musical heartbeat of America for more than a century. Sometimes loud, sometimes quiet, but never totally absent. Ragtime's first big boom ended in 1917 with the death of Scott Joplin and the U.S. entry into WWI. But ragtime continued to exert an influence on popular music. Its imprint is apparent on the jazz and dance band fare of the 1920's and 1930's, as well as swing and big band music of the 1940's and early 1950's.

In 1970, Joshua Rifkin released a three record set titled "They All Played Ragtime". This set was comprised of all Joplin rags, played "as written" and not jazzed up as they too often were. These recordings supported the claim that ragtime is a legitimate and complex musical form, and gave ragtime a big lift.

A short time later a hit movie called "The Sting" added still more to ragtime's credibility as an important musical form.

In "Real Ragtime", Archeophone offers 28 selections that represent a "who's who" of ragtime, spanning 1901 to 1922. It's an audio trip through American music history. As with all Archeophone albums, the liner notes are an enlightening source of historical facts and tidbits.

www.archeophone.com

Nan Bostick and Tom Brier display their talents on "Dualing at the McCoy's". Featuring the music of Charles N. Daniels AKA Neil Moret and L'Albert. Under these three names Mr. Daniels composed an impressive number of superb songs I would place on the same shelf with Scott Joplin. (At Least)

Nan Bostick is Mr. Daniels grandniece. Not only a fine musician and composer, Nan is also a published writer and historian. As a teacher with "Music Together" she has eleven classes in progress. She is one of ragtime's favorite performers, traveling around the country giving concerts and performing at festivals.

Tom Brier has an immense reputation among his peers as an outstanding musician and composer. Using his many talents, Tom even provides music for silent movie events. The great performance Nan & Tom give on the entire album is a fitting tribute to Charles N. Daniels. More information on "Dualing at the McCoy's", at rtnan@earthlink.net or call (650) 328-5792 and the CD is available at http://www.cdbaby.com/bostickbrier.

For this next CD, I am borrowing from the Tolucan Times.

"Warming Up With Ragtime Ruby", is the debut CD from 12-year old piano prodigy, Ruby Fradkin.With her original boogies, Fradkin calls forth the playfulness of Count Basie, in her piano/tuba romps, she reminds one of Jonnie Johnson. On the album as a whole, she projects the elegance and style of Booker T. Jones.

On Tuesdays, Ruby plays at Kulak's in North Hollywood, and often works with some of the most talented musicians on the west coast.

This marvelous young lady will perform in Sacramento at the West Coast Ragtime Society's Festival in November of this year.

"Warming Up With Ragtime Ruby", is available at CD Baby.com

This new release is on the KHA label, based in Rome. It features the superb piano of Alessandra Celletti. With four successful classical albums to her credit, Alessandra now brings her first class talents to ragtime. A fine selection of Joplin tunes, combined with Alessandra's velvety style makes the album a winner. She plays like a ragtime veteran. I think she will be quite popular at ragtime events. Look for her name on websites where ever ragtime is popular. (Sweden should be one of the first)

"Black Baby", Scott Joplin's Ragtimes, is available at CD Baby.com

As I said earlier, ragtime is where the best do what they do best. The hundreds of ragtime artists around the country covered by that expression, certainly includes Scott Kirby. On this album, you hear a well thought out collection of ragtime, boogie and barrel house. I am always attracted to creative variety and extraordinary musicianship.

Scott Kirby plays with the excellence that is associated with the world of ragtime.

"Some Assembly Required", is on Night Owl Records in New Orleans.

Here are three fine albums from Costa Rican singing sensation Grace Abarca. Grace uses her exciting voice to charm and entertain us through a variety of musical selections, which range from Latin ballads to songs from the stage and movies.

Her smooth, sometimes sultry voice exposes the best in each song. Her voice is amazing, and her concerts in Nevada County and Northern California continue to be a subject for conversation.

Sobrevivire': A collection of Latin songs that include two original compositions by Grace, and three songs in English.

Storybook: Great selection of songs from stage, screen and light opera.

Somewhere: More fine choices, again from stage and screen.

And it's all performed with the style and emotion Grace is known for.

For more, go to www.graceabarca.com

(Grace came to KVMR for a short interview and stayed over two hours to help with a pledge drive in progress. She promptly reached into her purse and pulled out a hand full of CD's to be used for premiums.) (That's Grace)