In this episode of The Benicia Voice, host Ruben Brunt and Executive Producer Bart Sullivan talk to the extremely talented piano and keyboardist Greg Rahn about his upcoming Mardi Gras concert at The Empress Theatre on February 17th 2023. The concert will feature his band for this special event, including Carlos Reyes (Violin), Jeff Campitelli (Drums), Fat Tuesday Horns Erik Jekabson (Trumpet), Mike Rinta (Trombone), Tim Eschliman (Bass) and Benicia Voice host Ruben Brunt (Percussion).
Originally from Connecticut, Greg now resides in American Canyon CA, north east of San Francisco. After hearing Dr. John play piano, Greg developed a passion for two fisted piano styles like boogie woogie and New Orleans jazz. His most recent project Rent Party Piano is inspired by the rent parties that were common in urban American cities in the 1920's and 30s, where renters would invite guests to parties a few days before rent was due, charging 25¢ for admission and have live musicians perform, serve food and drink, and celebrate. These compositions are dripping with honky-tonk, jazz, blues and blazing boogie-woogie influences from pianists like Fats Waller, Professor Longhair, Pete Johnson and Dr John.
“Greg is one of the most versatile keyboard players in the Bay Area. He can play jazz, classical, contemporary, and has a flair for upbeat honky-tonk and ragtime compositions.”
