Neon Jazz Interviews

Neon Jazz Interviews - The Finest Jazz Musicians From All Over the Globe

Neon Jazz is a radio show and interview series created and distributed since 2011. Hatched & Hosted by Joe Dimino out of Kansas City, Missouri. The series has been Engineered and generously supported by John Christopher over thirteen years, hundreds of episodes and thousands of interviews. We celebrate the glory days right on into the innovations of modern players. The aim is to tell the rich story of jazz through the voice of the musician and provide an enticing kaleidoscope of sound and stories. We are always celebrating one of America's finest inventions .. Jazz. Dig in ..

  1. Christian Dillingham Interview | Grammy-Winning Jazz Bassist on As It Relates to Now (2026)

    vor 42 m

    Christian Dillingham Interview | Grammy-Winning Jazz Bassist on As It Relates to Now (2026)

    Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with Grammy Award-winning jazz bassist, composer, educator, and bandleader Christian Dillingham. On this episode, we discuss his outstanding 2026 release, As It Relates to Now, an album featuring eight original compositions performed by a stellar trio with acclaimed alto saxophonist Greg Ward and drummer Jeremy Cunningham. Together, they create a compelling musical landscape that moves effortlessly between groove-driven modern jazz, blues-infused expression, and adventurous improvisation. A cornerstone of Chicago's vibrant creative music scene, Christian Dillingham has built an impressive career spanning both jazz and classical music. His artistry has led him to perform and record alongside some of today's most respected musicians, including Sean Jones, Jeff "Tain" Watts, John Legend, Peter Bernstein, Kevin Mahogany, Dee Alexander, Bobby Broom, and Mike Reed. In this conversation, we explore the inspiration behind As It Relates to Now, composing original music, improvisation, the evolution of Chicago jazz, collaboration, balancing jazz and classical traditions, life as a working musician, and where modern jazz is headed. Whether you're a longtime jazz fan, bassist, student, or simply love discovering outstanding new music, this episode offers an inside look at one of today's most respected creative voices. Enjoy this interview. Get the album:https://shiftingparadigmrecords.bandcamp.com/album/as-it-relates-to-now For More Neon Jazz: Shows via MixCloud: https://www.mixcloud.com/neonjazzkc/ Subscribe via Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/user/neonjazzkc Subscribe via iTunes/Apple - https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/famous-interviews-joe-dimino/id546432639?mt=2 The Home of Neon Jazz: http://theneonjazz.blogspot.com/ Contribute to Neon Jazz via PayPal:                    https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=ER Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    26 Min.
  2. James McGowan Interview | Threads of Fate, 2026 Jazz Album, Greek Mythology & Large Ensemble Jazz

    vor 23 Std.

    James McGowan Interview | Threads of Fate, 2026 Jazz Album, Greek Mythology & Large Ensemble Jazz

    Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with acclaimed Canadian jazz pianist, composer, arranger, and bandleader James McGowan. On this episode, we explore his stunning new 2026 album Threads of Fate, the tenth recording as a leader and the third featuring the acclaimed James McGowan Ensemble (JME)—a dynamic 14-piece group that seamlessly blends horns, strings, and rhythm section into a cinematic modern jazz experience. Building on the ambitious musical vision established with Reaching In (2023) and Reaching Out (2024), Threads of Fate takes listeners even deeper into narrative composition. Inspired by the timeless Greek myth of the Three Fates, the project was developed alongside KingDom Theatre as part of an innovative physical theatre production that premiered at Canada's National Arts Centre in Ottawa in 2025. The album combines orchestral textures, contemporary jazz, dramatic storytelling, and expressive improvisation into a powerful artistic statement that bridges jazz, theater, mythology, and modern composition. During our conversation, James discusses composing for large ensembles, collaborating across artistic disciplines, bringing mythology into contemporary jazz, leading a 14-piece ensemble, his creative process, Canadian jazz, and the evolution of one of today's most imaginative large-group composers. Whether you're a fan of big band jazz, contemporary composition, orchestral jazz, or cinematic storytelling through music, this is a conversation you won't want to miss. Enjoy this interview. Get the album and learn more:https://jamesmcgowan.ca/threads_of_fate For More Neon Jazz: Shows via MixCloud: https://www.mixcloud.com/neonjazzkc/ Subscribe via Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/user/neonjazzkc Subscribe via iTunes/Apple - https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/famous-interviews-joe-dimino/id546432639?mt=2 The Home of Neon Jazz: http://theneonjazz.blogspot.com/ Contribute to Neon Jazz via PayPal:                    https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=ER Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    12 Min.
  3. Basya Schechter Interview | Songs of Desire, Pharaoh's Daughter, John Zorn's Tzadik & Global Jazz

    vor 1 Tag

    Basya Schechter Interview | Songs of Desire, Pharaoh's Daughter, John Zorn's Tzadik & Global Jazz

    Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with acclaimed New York-based vocalist, composer, multi-instrumentalist, and bandleader Basya Schechter of Pharaoh's Daughter. On this episode, we dive into her remarkable 2026 album Songs of Desire, released on John Zorn's legendary Tzadik Records. More than an album, Songs of Desire is the culmination of an extraordinary 18-year creative journey that transforms the biblical Song of Songs into a deeply personal exploration of sacred love, longing, spirituality, and cross-cultural musical expression. Known for her pioneering work at the crossroads of Jewish music, world music, jazz, experimental composition, and global traditions, Basya has spent decades creating music that transcends genres and borders. On Songs of Desire, she blends Hebrew, Arabic, Yiddish, French, Spanish, and English lyrics with jazz-informed improvisation, Middle Eastern influences, devotional music, avant-garde composition, and deeply emotional storytelling. In this conversation, we discuss the inspiration behind the album, the long creative process, working with Tzadik Records, John Zorn's influence, Jewish musical traditions, global music, improvisation, songwriting, spirituality, travel, and the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary music. This is a fascinating conversation about artistic courage, cultural connection, sacred expression, and one of the most ambitious releases of 2026. Enjoy this interview. Get the album:https://pharaohsdaughterband.bandcamp.com/album/songs-of-desire For More Neon Jazz: Shows via MixCloud: https://www.mixcloud.com/neonjazzkc/ Subscribe via Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/user/neonjazzkc Subscribe via iTunes/Apple - https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/famous-interviews-joe-dimino/id546432639?mt=2 The Home of Neon Jazz: http://theneonjazz.blogspot.com/ Contribute to Neon Jazz via PayPal:                    https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=ER Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    30 Min.
  4. Erica von Kleist Interview | Picc Pocket, Piccolo Flute Jazz, New 2026 Album & Modern Jazz

    vor 2 Tagen

    Erica von Kleist Interview | Picc Pocket, Piccolo Flute Jazz, New 2026 Album & Modern Jazz

    Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with acclaimed jazz multi-instrumentalist, composer, educator, and bandleader Erica von Kleist. On this episode, we dive into her groundbreaking 2026 album Picc Pocket, an innovative recording that boldly places the piccolo flute front and center in a modern straight-ahead jazz setting. While the piccolo has occasionally appeared in jazz history, it has rarely served as the primary voice of a small ensemble. With Picc Pocket, Erica expands that tradition, presenting an exciting collection of original, high-energy compositions that showcase the instrument's expressive range, technical brilliance, and lyrical beauty. Known for her versatility as a saxophonist, flutist, piccolo specialist, composer, arranger, and educator, Erica continues pushing the boundaries of contemporary jazz while remaining deeply rooted in the tradition. Picc Pocket demonstrates how imagination, exceptional musicianship, and fearless creativity can redefine an instrument's role in modern jazz. In this conversation, we discuss the inspiration behind the album, composing for piccolo flute, jazz arranging, improvisation, education, recording, performing, the evolution of today's jazz scene, and the creative process behind one of 2026's most unique jazz releases. Whether you're a jazz musician, flutist, educator, or simply a fan of adventurous modern jazz, this conversation offers fascinating insights into artistry, innovation, and musical exploration. Enjoy this interview. Get the album and learn more:https://www.ericavonkleist.com/piccpocket For More Neon Jazz: Shows via MixCloud: https://www.mixcloud.com/neonjazzkc/ Subscribe via Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/user/neonjazzkc Subscribe via iTunes/Apple - https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/famous-interviews-joe-dimino/id546432639?mt=2 The Home of Neon Jazz: http://theneonjazz.blogspot.com/ Contribute to Neon Jazz via PayPal:                    https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=ER Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    17 Min.
  5. Stephen Parisi Jr. Interview | Buddy!, Debut Jazz Album, Chicago Bassist & His Career

    vor 4 Tagen

    Stephen Parisi Jr. Interview | Buddy!, Debut Jazz Album, Chicago Bassist & His Career

    Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz Interview Series featuring Chicago-based jazz bassist, composer, and bandleader Stephen Parisi Jr.. On this episode, we dive into his outstanding debut 2026 album Buddy!, a deeply personal recording that pays tribute to the mentors, family members, musical communities, and experiences that helped shape his artistic voice. Originally from Buffalo, Stephen built a strong reputation as one of Western New York's most sought-after bassists before relocating to Chicago, where he continues to immerse himself in one of America's richest jazz traditions. Along the way, he developed a distinctive sound rooted in tradition while embracing the creative possibilities of modern jazz. Produced by Buffalo jazz piano legend and longtime mentor George Caldwell, Buddy! features an exciting ensemble of emerging musicians performing a collection of original compositions that showcase Stephen's abilities as both a bassist and composer. In this conversation, we discuss the making of Buddy!, mentorship, family influences, composition, the transition from Buffalo to Chicago, building a career in jazz, working with George Caldwell, and the importance of community in artistic growth. The result is a heartfelt debut that celebrates friendship, gratitude, artistic development, and the people who help shape a musician's path. We cover the whole story. Enjoy. Get the album:Buddy! on Bandcamp For More Neon Jazz: Shows via MixCloud: https://www.mixcloud.com/neonjazzkc/ Subscribe via Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/user/neonjazzkc Subscribe via iTunes/Apple - https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/famous-interviews-joe-dimino/id546432639?mt=2 The Home of Neon Jazz: http://theneonjazz.blogspot.com/ Contribute to Neon Jazz via PayPal:                    https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=ER Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    30 Min.
  6. Barry Greene Interview | Giants, Jazz Guitar Legends, Wes Montgomery Tribute & Lifetime in Jazz

    vor 5 Tagen

    Barry Greene Interview | Giants, Jazz Guitar Legends, Wes Montgomery Tribute & Lifetime in Jazz

    Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz Interview Series featuring acclaimed jazz guitarist, educator, author, and clinician Barry Greene. On this episode, we sit down with the Jacksonville, Florida-based guitarist to discuss his outstanding 2026 release Giants, a deeply personal recording that honors the legendary musicians who helped shape his artistic voice and lifelong relationship with jazz. Giants serves as a heartfelt tribute to some of the most influential guitarists in jazz history, including Pat Martino, Grant Green, Wes Montgomery, and Russell Malone. Through organ trio performances, modern ensemble arrangements, and intimate solo guitar explorations, Barry celebrates their influence while showcasing his own distinctive musical identity. Known throughout the jazz world for his exceptional musicianship and decades of dedication to music education, Barry has inspired generations of students through teaching, clinics, masterclasses, instructional materials, and performances. His approach combines deep respect for jazz tradition with a highly personal and expressive artistic voice. In this conversation, we discuss the making of Giants, the legacy of the guitar masters who inspired him, jazz education, improvisation, technique, mentorship, performing, recording, and the lessons learned from a lifetime devoted to music. We also explore his journey from New Jersey to an internationally respected career as one of today's most admired jazz guitar educators and performers. Enjoy this interview. Get the album:Giants on Origin Records For More Neon Jazz: Shows via MixCloud: https://www.mixcloud.com/neonjazzkc/ Subscribe via Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/user/neonjazzkc Subscribe via iTunes/Apple - https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/famous-interviews-joe-dimino/id546432639?mt=2 The Home of Neon Jazz: http://theneonjazz.blogspot.com/ Contribute to Neon Jazz via PayPal:                    https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=ER Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    27 Min.
  7. Early Times Interview | 2026 Album Border Crossings, Jazz-Blues Fusion & SiriusXM Legend

    vor 6 Tagen

    Early Times Interview | 2026 Album Border Crossings, Jazz-Blues Fusion & SiriusXM Legend

    Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz Interview Series featuring veteran guitarist, singer, songwriter, producer, composer, and longtime SiriusXM personality Early Times. On this episode, we dive into his outstanding 2026 release Border Crossings, a dynamic recording that seamlessly blends jazz, blues, Latin rhythms, and American roots music into a vibrant and soulful musical statement. What makes Border Crossings especially compelling is the way it was recorded—captured live in a single session with an all-star ensemble featuring legendary drummer Steve Gadd, bassist Luques Curtis, pianist Zaccai Curtis, and saxophonist Craig Handy. The result is a recording filled with spontaneity, chemistry, and world-class musicianship. Beyond his recording career, Early Times is a familiar voice to music lovers across North America as a foundational on-air personality at SiriusXM, where he is widely recognized for his work on B.B. King's Bluesville and Deep Tracks. His decades-long career has connected him to countless artists, recordings, and musical traditions. In this conversation, we discuss the making of Border Crossings, working with legendary musicians, the evolution of blues and jazz, songwriting, recording live in the studio, radio broadcasting, and a lifetime dedicated to music. We cover the whole story. Enjoy. Get the album and learn more:Early Times Official Page For More Neon Jazz: Shows via MixCloud: https://www.mixcloud.com/neonjazzkc/ Subscribe via Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/user/neonjazzkc Subscribe via iTunes/Apple - https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/famous-interviews-joe-dimino/id546432639?mt=2 The Home of Neon Jazz: http://theneonjazz.blogspot.com/ Contribute to Neon Jazz via PayPal:                    https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=ER Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    23 Min.
  8. Ben Markley Interview | Tuesday Morning Feeling, Big Band Jazz, Thelonious Monk & Modern Composition

    23. Juni

    Ben Markley Interview | Tuesday Morning Feeling, Big Band Jazz, Thelonious Monk & Modern Composition

    Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz Interview Series featuring acclaimed jazz pianist, composer, arranger, educator, and bandleader Ben Markley. On this episode, we discuss his outstanding 2026 big band release Tuesday Morning Feeling, a recording that showcases his evolving artistic vision, masterful compositions, and distinctive approach to modern jazz orchestration. Ben's musical journey began in rural Kansas and traveled through the rich jazz traditions of Kansas City and Denver before leading him to his current home in Wyoming. Along the way, he has established himself as one of the most respected voices in contemporary jazz composition, arranging, and performance. With Tuesday Morning Feeling, Ben takes another significant step forward as a composer and bandleader. The album features seven original compositions alongside imaginative new arrangements of music by jazz giants Thelonious Monk and Cedar Walton. The recording balances strong melodic concepts with open-ended frameworks that encourage interaction, spontaneity, risk-taking, and collective creativity. Throughout our conversation, we explore the making of the album, the art of big band writing, arranging jazz standards, composition, improvisation, education, leadership, and the lifelong pursuit of artistic growth. We also discuss his influences, career path, and the creative lessons learned from a life dedicated to jazz. Enjoy this interview. Get the album:Tuesday Morning Feeling on Origin Records For More Neon Jazz: Shows via MixCloud: https://www.mixcloud.com/neonjazzkc/ Subscribe via Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/user/neonjazzkc Subscribe via iTunes/Apple - https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/famous-interviews-joe-dimino/id546432639?mt=2 The Home of Neon Jazz: http://theneonjazz.blogspot.com/ Contribute to Neon Jazz via PayPal:                    https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=ER Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    25 Min.
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Neon Jazz is a radio show and interview series created and distributed since 2011. Hatched & Hosted by Joe Dimino out of Kansas City, Missouri. The series has been Engineered and generously supported by John Christopher over thirteen years, hundreds of episodes and thousands of interviews. We celebrate the glory days right on into the innovations of modern players. The aim is to tell the rich story of jazz through the voice of the musician and provide an enticing kaleidoscope of sound and stories. We are always celebrating one of America's finest inventions .. Jazz. Dig in ..

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    Neon Jazz Interviews - The Finest Jazz Musicians From All Over the Globe
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    2012 - 2026
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