William Bolcom: The Complete Rags

Welcome, dear readers, to a wacky whirlwind ride through the complete rags of William Bolcom, as interpreted by the marvellously talented Marc-Andre Hamelin. From the first tickling ivories of "Graceful Ghost" to the toe-tapping energy of "Incineratorag," Hamelin effortlessly breathes new life into these classic rags with his virtuosic flair. His nimble fingers dance across the keys like a spider on a hot tin roof, delivering lightning-fast runs and cheeky dynamics that will leave you hanging on the edge of your seat. Bolcom's ragtime compositions are given a fresh, modern twist in Hamelin's capable hands, with each track bursting with character and charm. "Old Adam" exudes a mischievous playfulness, while "Tabby Cat Walk" prowls and purrs with feline grace. But don't be fooled by the playful titles – there's serious musicality at work here. Hamelin's technical precision and emotional depth shine through in every note, making this album a must-listen for anyone with a taste for the quirky and unconventional. So grab your top hat and monocle, dear readers, and prepare to be dazzled by the brilliance of Marc-Andre Hamelin's take on William Bolcom's ragtime masterpieces. This album is a joyous romp through one of America's most beloved musical genres, and a testament to the enduring power of ragtime music in the hands of a true maestro. Cheers to that!