Ballads that have become standards over the years are due primarily to the creativity of America's greatest composers and lyricists. It was an era of music where thought, feelings and sensitivity were a major part of these compositions and were created to tell a story, whether of love, hardships, loyalty or just plain fun. And, listeners can associate with them because they are melodic and understandable. For over four decades, Ray Kraemer has been putting his own personal style on these ballads, starting with his own combo called The Entertainers. He now performs exclusively as a solo act employing bass and percussion as an integral part of his digital piano. Today, Ray is hired for many private functions including cocktail/dinner parties, birthdays and holiday events. Currently he is entertaining on a weekly basis at an area country club whose members respond with requests and occasionally add a voice or two. There are no pyrotechnics here. What you hear is a very tasty, no-nonsense, fundamental approach to these ballads, incorporating pleasing chord structures and melody lines. At no time does the listener get side-tracked with off-the-wall dynamics. You can feel and follow the melody with no effort. You know where Ray is taking you, and you're happy to go along for the ride. Do yourself a favor. After a stressful day, turn the lights down, kick off the shoes, pop a cork, pour your favorite glass of vino and settle into the relaxed mood that Ray Kraemer can provide, remembering that: 'The fundamental things apply...as time goes by.' Play it again, Ray.