Merlin Roxby (piano)
Prohibition Bar's resident pianist Merlin Roxby once again entertained the few. In truth, it's the hardy souls. Ragtime, stride to a smattering of swing, Merlin can play. The passing trade, such as it is on a Thursday evening, fleetingly showed its appreciation. It's a regular gig for Merlin and good on him for plugging away.
Maple Leaf Rag is as good a place as any to start. Great stuff! Swipesey Cake Walk, a regulation St Louis Blues, Merlin is checking 'em out. Randy Newman's You Got a Friend in Me suggests Merlin has an eclectic range, and he does, Ray Charles' Hallelujah and I Love Her So, the Top Cat theme and more.
Later in his set, our aspiring ragtime pianist knocked out All of Me (not exactly ragtime, more a stately rendition of a much loved number), the Mess Around with its Roll 'em Pete vibe to a reprise of Maple Leaf Rag, Merlin Roxby is one to catch (next time, Thursday Sept. 21, Prohibition Bar). Russell
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