KeenlyStride by Max Keenlyside

A favorite at jazz and ragtime festivals across North America, and representative in the National Artist's Program held in conjunction with the 2010 Canada Games, pianist and composer Max Keenlyside is a "musician's musician" in the very best sense. On this CD as in his live performances, Keenlyside plays with plenty of pep and energy (but never too fast!) and his performances are laced with humor, all the while remaining faithful to the spirit and intent of the original composers. He is known especially for his renditions of pieces by Jelly Roll Morton, James P. Johnson, Eubie Blake, and other stride and early jazz composers. Never one to slavishly imitate the old masters, Keenlyside improvises comfortably in their styles, providing a fresh look at classics such as Johnson's "Mule Walk" or Morton's "King Porter Stomp." The accompanying eight-page booklet features extensive notes by the artist. 56 minutes.

Lauded for his skills as a ragtime and traditional jazz pianist, Max Keenlyside has performed for CBC and has headlined at festivals across North America. Max's debut album, KeenlyStride, was met with critical acclaim and his latest release, Mostly Max, puts an emphasis on his own piano compositions.

maxkeenlyside.ca