Dennis Botzer: The House

DENNIS BOTZER: THE HOUSE

Dennis Botzer: piano

Josh Dukes: bodhran

On fiddle, whistle, guitar and piano, Dennis Botzer has been playing Irish music in the Washington DC area for as long as I can remember. In particular, his crowd-pleasing piano playing is always a highlight of sessions Dennis attends and of music parties at "the house," to which Dennis sometimes refers affectionately as "DunBotzer Oaks." This recording captures perfectly Dennis' unique approach to Irish tunes. Now, while the CD is subtitled " Traditional Irish Music for Piano," do not expect music played in the style of Geraldine Cotter ("Piano +") or Padraig O'Reilly ("Down the Ivory Stairs"). A more apt comparison possibly could be drawn with the playing of Micheal O'Suilleabhain, not so much in stylistic terms, but because Dennis' playing has a similar quirkiness and "feel-good" quality to it. But Dennis being American born and raised, musically in particular, syncopations and jazzy harmonies pervade his treatment of the tunes, giving them an irresistible, if not-so-traditional, swing. Very enjoyable.

Rating: *** 1/2

Price: $15.99