The Piano Styles of Dr. John

So, what is the secret behind the funky in-the-pocket grooves and distinctive New Orleans vocal drawl of Mac Rebennack (a.k.a. Dr. John)? An encyclopedic knowledge of a century's worth of piano styles, and a deep and abiding love of music, we learn here as the good doctor, joined by friend (and SNL staff music producer) Hal Willner as host, plays through (first at normal speed followed by a slower version) tunes such as "Mess Around," "St. James Infirmary" (played here in Dixieland Jazz style), "When the Saints Go Marching In," "Don't Let the Sun Catch You Crying," "Since I Fell For You," Auld Lang Syne" (with suggestions on how to keep it going when you accidentally start 15 minutes before midnight!), and others, invoking many of his heroes--including Professor Longhair and Jelly Roll Morton--along the way. In "Part One: Traditional Blues & New Orleans Boogie," Dr. John tackles the seminal sounds of Texas boogie, early jazz and blues styles, stride piano, and early country music, while in "Part Two: Contemporary R&B, Pop and Jazz," he takes a loving but not-too-reverent look at musical styles that form the basis of much of modern music, including the ever-influential Louis Jordan and Ray Charles. Excellent camerawork provides a number of angles for viewers to see the keyboard as well as soak up the vibe, while two fat booklets provide sheet music for many of the examples. Highly recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (C. Block)