Dive into the vibrant and dynamic world of early 20th-century American music with "James P. Johnson 1917 - 21," a captivating collection of tracks that showcase the genius of James P. Johnson, a pioneer of jazz and ragtime. Released in 2000, this album is a testament to Johnson's enduring influence and innovation, featuring 11 tracks that span a mere 45 minutes but pack a powerful punch.
James P. Johnson, born in New Brunswick, NJ, was a virtuoso pianist who mastered the art of ragtime and evolved it into a more ambitious form of composition and performance. His stride piano style became a defining characteristic of the jazz age, and this album captures the essence of that transformative period. From the energetic "Carolina Shout" to the soulful "Cry Baby Blues," each track is a masterclass in musical storytelling, blending boogie-woogie, jazz, and ragtime into a seamless tapestry of sound.
The album opens with "Carolina Shout, Pt. 1" and "Carolina Shout, Pt. 2," showcasing Johnson's signature stride piano technique and setting the stage for the rest of the collection. "Eccentricity" and "Don't Tell Your Monkey Man" highlight his playful and inventive approach to composition, while "It Takes Love To Cure The Heart's Disease" and "Loveless Love" delve into the emotional depth of his music. "Doctor Jazzes Raz-Ma-Taz" and "Roumania" offer a glimpse into his international influences, and "If You're Never Been Vamped By A Brown Skin, You've Never Been Vamped At All" is a playful and sultry ode to the jazz age.
"Arkansas Blues" and "Cry Baby Blues" round out the album, showcasing Johnson's ability to blend humor, pathos, and technical virtuosity into a single performance. Whether you're a seasoned jazz aficionado or a newcomer to the genre, "James P. Johnson 1917 - 21" is an essential addition to your music library. So sit back, relax, and let the timeless melodies of James P. Johnson transport you to a bygone era of musical innovation and creativity.
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