Ralph Sutton - Eye Opener (LP)

Ralph Sutton's "Eye Opener" is a vibrant journey through the worlds of ragtime and boogie-woogie, released in 1996 under the Solo Art label. This album is a testament to Sutton's mastery of the piano, showcasing his virtuosic skills and deep understanding of these classic American musical styles. With a runtime of over an hour and sixteen minutes, the album offers a generous selection of fourteen tracks, each one a gem in its own right.

The album kicks off with "Rippling Waters," a piece that immediately sets the tone for the rest of the record, followed by "Viper's Drag," a boogie-woogie classic that Sutton breathes new life into. The medleys, such as "Memories of You & Taking a Chance on Love" and "Clothes Line Ballet & I Can't Believe That You're in Love with Me," demonstrate Sutton's ability to weave together different melodies and rhythms seamlessly. The album also features beloved standards like "Honeysuckle Rose," "Old Fashioned Love," and "Alligator Crawl," each one performed with Sutton's signature flair and energy.

Throughout the album, Sutton is accompanied by Cliff Leeman on drums, creating a dynamic and engaging sound that will delight any fan of ragtime and boogie-woogie. Whether you're a long-time admirer of Ralph Sutton's work or a newcomer to his music, "Eye Opener" is sure to impress with its technical brilliance, infectious energy, and timeless appeal.