Ep 10. Murdoch in Ragtime

In Murdoch Mysteries season 7 episode 10, titled "Murdoch in Ragtime," protagonist Detective William Murdoch and his colleagues are thrust into the jazz age as they investigate a series of murders involving staff members at a local recording studio. The episode is set in Toronto, Canada, during the early years of the 20th century.

As the detectives delve deeper into the case, they discover that the killings may be linked to the music industry itself, and that the motives driving the murderer may be rooted in the rivalry and jealousy that often exists within the world of entertainment. Along the way, the investigation takes the team to a number of different musical venues and introduces them to a range of colorful characters, many of whom harbor secrets that could shed light on the crimes.

As always, the show's star, Yannick Bisson, brings his signature blend of intelligence, integrity, and wit to the role of William Murdoch, lending the character a sense of gravitas and credibility that makes him a natural leader among his peers. Meanwhile, Murdoch's colleagues, including the tough-as-nails Inspector Brackenreid (Thomas Craig), provide a welcome note of humor and levity to the proceedings, infusing the show with a sense of camaraderie and warmth that makes it engaging and accessible to viewers of all stripes.

One of the most distinctive features of Murdoch Mysteries is its attention to historical detail, and "Murdoch in Ragtime" is no exception. Set during the same period as the emergence of jazz and ragtime music in North America, the episode is suffused with the sights and sounds of the era, from the vibrant colors and decadent fashions of the time to the toe-tapping rhythms of the music itself. This richly evocative backdrop serves as the perfect canvas for the episode's absorbing and often surprising plot, which is guaranteed to keep viewers guessing until the very end.

Of course, no episode of Murdoch Mysteries would be complete without the show's trademark blend of mystery, suspense, and intrigue, and "Murdoch in Ragtime" delivers on all fronts. As the detectives sift through the clues and interrogate their suspects, a complex web of relationships and motives emerges, each one adding a new layer of complexity to the case. With plenty of twists, turns, and red herrings to keep viewers on their toes, the episode is a showcase for the show's unmatched ability to keep audiences guessing until the very end.

Overall, "Murdoch in Ragtime" is a standout episode of an already exceptional series, combining a richly detailed historical setting with a compelling mystery and a cast of unforgettable characters. For fans of Murdoch Mysteries, it's a must-watch installment that showcases everything that's made the show such a beloved institution, while newcomers to the series will find it a great introduction to the world of William Murdoch and his unflagging pursuit of justice.