Dive into the vibrant and dynamic world of ragtime with William Bolcom's "Bolcom: The Complete Rags," released on June 3, 2022, under the Hyperion label. This extensive collection spans over two hours and thirteen minutes, featuring a rich tapestry of 36 tracks that showcase Bolcom's mastery of the ragtime genre.
From the lively "Eubie's Luckey Day" to the hauntingly beautiful "3 Ghost Rags," each piece is a testament to Bolcom's compositional prowess and his deep appreciation for the ragtime tradition. The album is a journey through various styles within the genre, including popular rags, classical rags, and even a rag-tango, offering a diverse and engaging listening experience.
Highlights include the energetic "Knockout 'A Rag'" and the evocative "The Garden of Eden" suite, which weaves together four distinct movements. Bolcom's playful side shines through in tracks like "The Gardenia" and "California Porcupine Rag," while his more introspective moments are captured in pieces such as "Contentment" and "Lost Lady Rag."
Whether you're a seasoned ragtime enthusiast or new to the genre, "Bolcom: The Complete Rags" offers a comprehensive and captivating exploration of William Bolcom's contributions to this lively and enduring musical form.
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