Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series. In this episode, we catch up with French-born jazz composer and pianist Laurent Ziliani to discuss his powerful new 2025 CD Skybound, along with composing, life in the music world, and the role of travel in shaping his sound.

Skybound is a deeply personal musical tribute to Laurent’s dear friend, the late violinist and pilot Ben Powell. Written shortly after Ben’s passing, the work was later recorded by an ensemble of first-class musicians, many of whom were close friends and long-time collaborators.

Joining Laurent on this recording are Peter Erskine (drums), Nicholas Daley (trombone), Nick Mancini (vibraphone), Kyle Newmaster (trumpet & flugelhorns), Darius Scheider (guitar), Michael Valerio (upright bass), Leah Zeger (violin), and Zac Zinger (saxophones, alto flute & clarinets)—a lineup that brings depth, emotion, and modern jazz sophistication to the project.

A native of Cannes, France, Laurent studied music while pursuing a Master of Science, before committing fully to music at the renowned Berklee College of Music, where he earned a Bachelor of Music in Film Scoring.

🎶 This conversation explores the story behind Skybound, Laurent’s compositional voice, and the intersection of jazz, cinematic writing, and lived experience.

🎧 Get the album Skybound:
https://www.crossovermedia.net/artists/laurent-ziliani/projects/skybound/album/

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