Swing Theory

'He is romantic with a capital R: possessed of a poet's heart often manifest in exquisitely lyrical music. He is also a serious jazz pianist, and his new recording is the best batch yet! The music of Swing Theory is similarly complex ---- even kaleidoscopic. In the company of good friends Robert Hurst on bass and Karriem Riggins on drums, Rick heads up a world--class trio that always plays to the point of the music.' 'Now the listener does not require a Ph.D. in particle physics to understand Swing Theory. If you find your toes tapping, your fingers snapping or your head bobbing, you have successfully completed your graduate study! While a musician's background may enhance your experience, it's not necessary for understanding these tunes. All that is really required is an open mind that delights in surprises.' 'There are plenty of surprises to be found herein. The song stack includes four originals from Rick and a half dozen smart arrangements of tunes from the realm of animation. Most of the latter come from Alan Menken's scores for new--era Disney classics Aladdin, Beauty and the Beast and The Little Mermaid. Once again the music is approachable on it's own terms. I have not seen any of these movies, have no prior context for these tunes ---- yet found them utterly charming. Bob Hurst reports that his 16--year--old daughter has been asking to hear the record every day and loves it, having long since internalized the songs' original contexts from her childhood. This is a very personal recording and the music will yield personal joys for every listener.' (above is an excerpt from the liner notes) Marc S. Taras Host of Cuban Fantasy, WEMU 89.1 FM Ypsilanti, Michigan.