Paragon Ragtime Orchestra - Whistler and His Dog (CD)

All Music Guide

The second CD by Rick Benjamin's Paragon Ragtime Orchestra (which is comprised of a string quartet, two cornets, one trombone, two clarinets, flute, bass, drums and percussion) is the equal of the first. Using arrangments originally part of The Arthur Pryor Orchestra, this nonimprovising but very syncopated ensemble performs a wide variety of music from the 1905-1920 period, everything from "Dynamite Rag" and "Smiles" to "The Whistler and His Dog" and a waltz medley titled "Old Chestnuts." The little-known music should greatly followers of classic jazz since it is its direct predecessor.

- Scott Yanow, All Music Guide