JAZZIZ Not What You Think JAZZIZ Podcasts

Today’s episode of the JAZZIZ Podcast features an insightful conversation with singer/songwriter John Korbel about his latest album, Falling Feels Like Flying. This diverse collection of original compositions traces its origins back to the tumultuous days of the COVID-19 lockdowns. Korbel delves into his journey in music, including his return after a long hiatus, and discusses his unique style that blends vintage elements with a contemporary edge. He also shares details about his composition, recording, and production processes, providing a comprehensive look at the creation of his latest project.

In today’s episode of the JAZZIZ Podcast, we speak with vocalist and composer Dani Assis, the winner of this year’s Ella Fitzgerald Jazz Vocal Competition. Assis discusses his music and the messages he aims to convey through his work. He also shares the story behind his single, “My Own Embrace (Blue in Green),” and insights into his upcoming album, set for release in August. Moreover, we delve into his musical journey, explore the impact of his Brazilian heritage and reminisce about his earliest musical memories.

In today's episode of the JAZZIZ Podcast, we journey to Montreal, Canada, for an engaging conversation with drummer, composer and producer Will Régnier. He offers insights into his debut album as a bandleader, Traces, which showcases his genre-blending instrumental music and adept fusion of various styles, establishing him as a new formidable presence in the music scene. Throughout our discussion, Régnier delves into the album's conceptual underpinnings, emphasizing the significance of collaboration and his affinity for intricate time signatures. Additionally, we explore Régnier's journey, details about his compositional process and find out about his early musical influences and inspirations, for a deeper understanding of the artist behind the innovative sound of Traces.

In the latest episode of the JAZZIZ Podcast, we delve into a captivating conversation with James Hudson, a highly sought-after vocalist in the vibrant UK jazz scene. Hudson offers intriguing insights into his latest musical venture, Moonray, an album that builds upon the thematic and emotional depth of his previous work, Tomorrow. With a curated selection of both familiar standards and hidden gems, Moonray delves into a spectrum of emotions, including darker and more profound themes. Throughout the discussion, Hudson shares anecdotes from the album’s creation process, reflecting on the influence of his theatrical background on his song interpretations, his reverence for the iconic crooners of yesteryears, and many other engaging topics.

In today’s episode of the JAZZIZ Podcast, we’re joined by singer/songwriter Mark Winkler, a prominent figure in the Los Angeles jazz scene with a dedicated following. With a prolific discography boasting 20 albums, Winkler shares insights into his latest release, The Rules Don’t Apply, delving into its thematic significance, both personally and artistically. This record not only demonstrates Winkler’s compositional prowess through original pieces but also features covers of songs close to his heart. Our conversation explores the essence behind the album’s title, Winkler’s passion for singing, the gratification of hearing his compositions interpreted by renowned vocalists worldwide, and more.

Our guest on this episode of the JAZZIZ Podcast is composer, arranger and musician Doug Richards, here to talk about his latest album, Through a Sonic Prism, paying tribute to the legacy of a giant of Brazilian music, Ant​ô​nio Carlos Jobim. In this episode, we talk about Richard's connection to Jobim's music and his unique approach to arranging the carefully curated material for this project. We also delve into the genesis of Through a Sonic Prism and the challenges of working on a project of this scale in the COVID era. Aside from speaking about this record, we dive into Richards' renowned predilection for big bands and large ensembles and his history of working within this setting. Given Richards' longstanding work in the field, including as the founder of jazz studies at Virginia Commonwealth University, we also take this opportunity to reflect on the role of music education.