Peacherine Ragtime Society Orchestra - Jazzin the Blues Away (CD)

The Peacherine Ragtime Society Orchestra's fourth CD for Rivermont spotlights rare and delightful songs, rags, waltzes, and tangos from the Johnny Maddox collection of over 1,500 ragtime-era orchestrations. Andrew Greene and the PRSO have selected nearly two dozen of these musical gems, ranging from the fiery, bombastic "Listen to That Dixie Band" and "Mr. Trombonology" to the charmingly elegant "Bouclaire Waltzes." Many of these 100-year-old arrangements are recorded here for the first time - in crisp, high definition 24-bit sound that makes for a sumptuous, thrilling listening experience when played on good equipment. The CD includes a lavish 32-page color illustrated booklet with extensive commentary by PRSO director Andrew Greene and guest pianist Adam Swanson. Features vocals by William Edwards, an audience favorite wherever the orchestra plays. Two bonus tracks feature previously unreleased piano duets by Adam Swanson and Johnny Maddox himself. 76 minutes.