Neon Jazz Interviews

Neon Jazz Interviews - The Finest Jazz Musicians From All Over the Globe
  • 5.0 (168)
  • Arts

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. Jazz Bassist Shawn Lovato on His New Album Biotic & His Career

    5h ago

    Jazz Bassist Shawn Lovato on His New Album Biotic & His Career

    Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series featuring jazz bassist, composer, and bandleader Shawn Lovato. In this episode, we discuss his acclaimed 2026 release, Biotic, a bold and imaginative project that redefines the possibilities of the chordless tenor trio. Joining Shawn on the album are celebrated tenor saxophonist Ingrid Laubrock and drummer Henry Mermer. Together, they create a sound that blends atmospheric textures, adventurous improvisation, punk-inspired energy, and deep jazz tradition. Growing up outside New York City, Shawn's earliest influences came from punk, metal, and hip-hop rather than jazz. Those underground sounds helped shape his creative voice and ultimately informed his unique approach to improvised music. His path through jazz was unconventional, leading him to discover and reinterpret the legacy of chordless tenor ensembles through a modern lens. We discuss the making of Biotic, composition, improvisation, musical influences, collaboration, jazz history, and the ongoing evolution of contemporary jazz. Get the album:Biotic on Bandcamp For More Famous Interviews: Subscribe via Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgi6GpDDDrc_PgOzaERGbLQ Subscribe via iTunes/Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/famous-interviews-with-joe-dimino/id1660256991 Subscribe via Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/7j92QDS13LXgajPt80X2dh The Home of Famous Interviews: http://famousinterviewswithjoedimino.blogspot.com/ Contribute to Famous Interviews via PayPal:                    https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_b Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    23 min
  2. Jazz Saxophonist Maria Grand Discusses Her New 2026 Album Both Sides

    15h ago

    Jazz Saxophonist Maria Grand Discusses Her New 2026 Album Both Sides

    Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series featuring acclaimed jazz saxophonist, composer, bandleader, and creative visionary Maria Grand. In this episode, we discuss her powerful and deeply personal 2026 release, Both Sides, along with her artistic journey, live performances, creative process, and perspectives on music and culture in 2026. As her fourth full-length album, Both Sides explores duality in both structure and storytelling. One side of the project features Maria's working quartet with bassist Rashaan Carter, percussionist Shakoor Hakeem, and drummer Miguel Russell, delivering the adventurous, expressive, and emotionally resonant music that has become her signature. The album's other side expands beyond traditional performance through audio liner notes narrated by Jasmine Wilson, featuring Maria on saxophone alongside acclaimed pianist Angelica Sanchez. The result is a unique listening experience that merges music, reflection, narrative, and personal history. Throughout this conversation, we explore the inspiration behind Both Sides, the evolution of her sound, the importance of storytelling in jazz, the realities of performing and creating in today's musical landscape, and her thoughts on America and the arts in 2026. Maria Grand continues to emerge as one of the most compelling and original voices in contemporary jazz, and this interview offers a fascinating look into the mind of an artist unafraid to push boundaries while remaining deeply connected to personal truth and expression. Get the album:Both Sides on Bandcamp For More Famous Interviews: Subscribe via Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgi6GpDDDrc_PgOzaERGbLQ Subscribe via iTunes/Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/famous-interviews-with-joe-dimino/id1660256991 Subscribe via Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/7j92QDS13LXgajPt80X2dh The Home of Famous Interviews: http://famousinterviewswithjoedimino.blogspot.com/ Contribute to Famous Interviews via PayPal:                    https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_b Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    15 min
  3. Stanford Jazz Workshop Director Cory Combs Talks Jazz Festival 2026 with Branford Marsalis, Billy Childs & More

    1d ago

    Stanford Jazz Workshop Director Cory Combs Talks Jazz Festival 2026 with Branford Marsalis, Billy Childs & More

    Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series featuring Cory Combs, Executive Director of the Stanford Jazz Workshop, discussing the highly anticipated 54th Annual Stanford Jazz Festival. In this conversation, Cory takes us through his journey from Wichita to one of the most respected positions in jazz education and presents a comprehensive look at the six-week celebration of music, culture, and learning taking place from June 21 through July 31, 2026. Since its founding in 1972, the Stanford Jazz Festival has grown into one of America's premier jazz destinations, attracting thousands of music lovers from around the world to the beautiful campus of Stanford University. The 2026 edition celebrates jazz's rich history while showcasing its vibrant future through more than 25 performances, educational opportunities, world premieres, family-friendly events, and international collaborations. Highlights include centennial celebrations honoring jazz legends Miles Davis and Jimmy Heath, featuring performances by acclaimed artists Jeremy Pelt, Jeb Patton, and David Wong. The festival lineup also includes world-renowned performers such as Billy Childs, George Cables, Branford Marsalis, and Anat Cohen, alongside celebrated artists including The Westerlies, Nick Rossi, Nicolas Bearde, and Sasha Berliner. We discuss jazz education, the importance of live performance, the festival's unique atmosphere, community impact, and why Stanford Jazz Festival remains one of the most exciting annual events on the jazz calendar. For program details, artist updates, and tickets:Stanford Jazz Festival Official Website For More Famous Interviews: Subscribe via Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgi6GpDDDrc_PgOzaERGbLQ Subscribe via iTunes/Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/famous-interviews-with-joe-dimino/id1660256991 Subscribe via Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/7j92QDS13LXgajPt80X2dh The Home of Famous Interviews: http://famousinterviewswithjoedimino.blogspot.com/ Contribute to Famous Interviews via PayPal:                    https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_b Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    21 min
  4. Brooklyn Jazz Pianist Luke Marantz on His New Album Echoes & His Career

    1d ago

    Brooklyn Jazz Pianist Luke Marantz on His New Album Echoes & His Career

    Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series featuring acclaimed Brooklyn-based jazz pianist, composer, improviser, and sonic explorer Luke Marantz. In this episode, we discuss his mesmerizing 2026 release, Echoes, and take a deep dive into his journey through jazz, improvisation, composition, and modern music. Created alongside bassist and guitarist Simon Jermyn, Echoes presents a captivating collection of duets that showcase a musical partnership developed over more than a decade. The album explores expansive sonic landscapes while blending jazz improvisation with elements of electronic music, contemporary classical composition, ambient textures, and post-rock influences. Additional contributions from drummer Josh Dion add further depth to the project. Recognized by NPR as “among the best young American jazz pianists,” Luke has established himself as one of the most creative voices of his generation. Whether performing on acoustic piano or synthesizer, he continuously pushes the boundaries of genre while maintaining a strong connection to improvisation and jazz tradition. We discuss the making of Echoes, artistic growth, collaboration, improvisation, electronic textures, contemporary composition, and the experiences that have shaped his musical voice—from his roots in Dallas to his time in Boston and his current home in Brooklyn. This conversation offers a fascinating look into the creative process of an artist redefining what modern jazz can be. Get the album and learn more:Chill Tone Records Bandcamp For More Famous Interviews: Subscribe via Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgi6GpDDDrc_PgOzaERGbLQ Subscribe via iTunes/Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/famous-interviews-with-joe-dimino/id1660256991 Subscribe via Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/7j92QDS13LXgajPt80X2dh The Home of Famous Interviews: http://famousinterviewswithjoedimino.blogspot.com/ Contribute to Famous Interviews via PayPal:                    https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_b Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    33 min
  5. Jazz Vocalist Sylvia Brooks on Soliloquy, Songwriting, Creativity & Her Career

    2d ago

    Jazz Vocalist Sylvia Brooks on Soliloquy, Songwriting, Creativity & Her Career

    Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series featuring acclaimed Los Angeles-based jazz vocalist, songwriter, performer, and recording artist Sylvia Brooks. In this episode, we dive into her sixth album, Soliloquy, and explore a remarkable creative journey shaped by music, acting, storytelling, and artistic expression. Raised by parents who were both musicians and artists, Sylvia grew up immersed in a world of creativity and performance. That rich artistic foundation has informed a career marked by authenticity, elegance, and a deep commitment to meaningful storytelling through song. On Soliloquy, Sylvia delivers a powerful collection of four jazz standards and four original compositions that explore the many dimensions of the human experience. The album examines life's joys, challenges, heartbreaks, triumphs, compassion, resilience, romance, and beauty through vivid lyrics and expressive performances. In this conversation, we discuss the inspiration behind the album, songwriting, jazz vocals, acting, creativity, artistic growth, performance, and the lessons learned throughout her career in music and entertainment. Sylvia shares insights into her creative process, her passion for connecting with audiences, and how personal experiences have shaped the emotional depth found throughout Soliloquy. This is a thoughtful and engaging discussion for jazz fans, vocal music enthusiasts, songwriters, performers, and anyone who appreciates compelling storytelling through music. Get the album and learn more:Sylvia Brooks Official Website 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
  6. Married Jazz Duo Al and Stacey Schulman on Their New Album Crazy World & Much More

    2d ago

    Married Jazz Duo Al and Stacey Schulman on Their New Album Crazy World & Much More

    Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series featuring married jazz collaborators, guitarist Al Schulman and vocalist Stacey Schulman. In this episode, we dive into their thought-provoking new 2026 album, Crazy World, and explore their shared journey through music, creativity, collaboration, and life together. Created during a period marked by cultural upheaval, rapid technological change, and uncertainty, Crazy World captures the feeling of living in an era where familiar foundations often seem to be shifting beneath our feet. Rather than offering easy answers, the album embraces the complexity of the modern moment—examining questions of truth, perception, authenticity, and human connection. The project features an exceptional lineup of musicians, including legendary drummer Jeff Watts, bassist Corcoran Holt, vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Dante Pope, and acclaimed pianist, arranger, and producer Gil Goldstein. Beyond the music, we discuss how Al and Stacey first met, their evolution as artists and partners, the creative process behind the album, and the unique experience of building a musical life together. This is an engaging conversation about jazz, relationships, artistic expression, collaboration, and finding meaning through music in a rapidly changing world. Get the album:Crazy World on Amazon Music For More Famous Interviews: Subscribe via Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgi6GpDDDrc_PgOzaERGbLQ Subscribe via iTunes/Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/famous-interviews-with-joe-dimino/id1660256991 Subscribe via Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/7j92QDS13LXgajPt80X2dh The Home of Famous Interviews: http://famousinterviewswithjoedimino.blogspot.com/ Contribute to Famous Interviews via PayPal:                    https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_b Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    33 min
  7. From Harlem Club Owner to Recording Artist | Marcus Goldhaber on His New Album and Career

    3d ago

    From Harlem Club Owner to Recording Artist | Marcus Goldhaber on His New Album and Career

    Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series featuring acclaimed jazz vocalist, songwriter, bandleader, entrepreneur, and former club owner Marcus Goldhaber. In this episode, we discuss his outstanding 2026 album, The Promise of You, along with his fascinating journey through the world of jazz, performance, songwriting, and club ownership. On his sixth recording as a leader, Marcus presents a compelling collection that balances original compositions with timeless jazz standards. The album reflects both artistic growth and a renewed commitment to music after an important chapter in his life as the founder and owner of Room 623, a beloved Harlem listening room that became known for intimate performances and a deep appreciation of jazz artistry. While operating Room 623 was a labor of love, it also required Marcus to place much of his recording career on hold. After closing the club, he returned his focus fully to creating music, resulting in the heartfelt and sophisticated recordings found on The Promise of You. Co-produced with acclaimed pianist Art Hirahara, the album features a stellar ensemble including bassist Michael O'Brien and drummer Alvester Garnett, along with special guest appearances from GRAMMY-nominated guitarist Paul Bollenback, saxophonist and clarinetist Jay Rattman, trumpeter Summer Camargo, and three-time GRAMMY-winning percussionist Keita Ogawa. We discuss the making of the album, jazz vocals, songwriting, entrepreneurship, running a music venue, artistic reinvention, and the experiences that shaped Marcus's unique path through the jazz world. This is an inspiring conversation about passion, perseverance, creativity, and the enduring power of great music. Get the album and learn more:The Promise of You on Bandcamp For More Famous Interviews: Subscribe via Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgi6GpDDDrc_PgOzaERGbLQ Subscribe via iTunes/Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/famous-interviews-with-joe-dimino/id1660256991 Subscribe via Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/7j92QDS13LXgajPt80X2dh The Home of Famous Interviews: http://famousinterviewswithjoedimino.blogspot.com/ Contribute to Famous Interviews via PayPal:                    https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_b Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    18 min
  8. Jazz Saxophonist Dave Schumacher on Cubeye's New Album Agua Con Gas & His Career

    3d ago

    Jazz Saxophonist Dave Schumacher on Cubeye's New Album Agua Con Gas & His Career

    Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series featuring acclaimed jazz saxophonist, composer, arranger, bandleader, educator, and longtime New York jazz fixture Dave Schumacher. In this episode, we dive into the new 2026 Cubeye album, Agua Con Gas, while exploring Dave's remarkable four-decade journey through the world of jazz. For more than 40 years, Dave Schumacher has been a vital presence on the New York jazz scene. As a freelance baritone saxophonist, he has performed in over 465 cities across 41 countries on five continents, building a truly international career through performance, collaboration, composition, and education. Dave toured extensively throughout the Americas and Europe as a member of Lionel Hampton's orchestra during the 1980s, helping carry on the legacy of one of jazz's most celebrated big bands. One of his career highlights came in 1987 when he traveled to Japan with the Art Blakey Big Band to perform at the renowned Mt. Fuji Jazz Festival. In 1990, Dave became an original member of Harry Connick Jr.'s orchestra, adding another significant chapter to a career filled with memorable performances and collaborations. We discuss the inspiration behind Agua Con Gas, life on the road, the evolution of jazz, international touring, arranging, composing, teaching, and the experiences that shaped one of the most respected baritone saxophonists working today. This conversation is packed with stories from decades on the bandstand and offers a fascinating look into the life of a dedicated jazz artist who has seen the music from every angle. Get the album and learn more:Dave Schumacher Bandcamp Page For More Famous Interviews: Subscribe via Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgi6GpDDDrc_PgOzaERGbLQ Subscribe via iTunes/Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/famous-interviews-with-joe-dimino/id1660256991 Subscribe via Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/7j92QDS13LXgajPt80X2dh The Home of Famous Interviews: http://famousinterviewswithjoedimino.blogspot.com/ Contribute to Famous Interviews via PayPal:                    https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_b 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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out of 5
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About

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 ..

Information

  • Creator
    Neon Jazz Interviews - The Finest Jazz Musicians From All Over the Globe
  • Years Active
    2012 - 2026
  • Episodes
    600
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Neon Jazz Interviews - The Finest Jazz Musicians From All Over the Globe
  • Show Website
    Neon Jazz Interviews