Shabaka is one of the most vital voices working in music today. For the past decade he has been heralded as one of the strongest and most imaginative saxophonists and bandleaders in jazz. The past handful of years have seen Shabaka turn his focus towards the flute. But his mission of creating "the best music possible" remains unchanged. Shabaka caught up with Sean McPherson to discuss his approach in advance of his appearance at The Walker on Thursday, March 20.

Jazz88's Peter Solomon spoke with Tony Balluff, clarinetist and founding member of the Southside Aces, about the Jazz Age Rumpus IV taking place at the Hook and Ladder Theater on Sunday, March 23rd from 3 - 7 PM. The music will focus on the New York sounds of Bix Beiderbecke, Ellington small groups, and singer Lee Wiley. The Southside Aces will perform at Sunday's event, as well as singer Maude Hixson and her Town Talkers, and a new combo Balluff has organized called the 4 AM Orchestra.

Most music listeners are unaware of cello quartets such as the Delphia Cello Quartet. But to a cellist, it’s the most normal thing in the world. The Delphia Cello Quartet performs music written and arranged by one of its members, Julia Floberg. Julia and the group took time out from a rehearsal to discuss their work with Phil Nusbaum.

With its strong emphasis on improvisation, the Silverback Trio of Minneapolis does “outside” well. But it also plays with a strong group feeling. Phil Nusbaum talked to Silverback Trio bassist Brent Wallace.

Jazz88's Peter Solomon speaks with singer Madeleine Peyroux about her 2024 album "Let's Walk." It focuses entirely on original music - songs that address issues of social justice, life, and love. Peyroux will perform in a double billing with blues and soul singer Bettye LaVette Thursday, March 20th and Friday, March 21 at the Parkway Theater.

Jazz88's Peter Solomon speaks with singer Madeline Peyroux about her 2024 album "Let's Walk." It focuses entirely on original music - songs that address issues of social justice, life, and love. Peyroux will perform in a double billing with blues and soul singer Bettye LaVette Thursday, March 20th and Friday, March 21 at the Parkway Theater.

Speaking about Bill Charlap's trio, the legendary songwriter Johnny Mandel said "It Don't Get No Better Than That." Bill Charlap's quiet and humble demeanor belies the fact he is one the reigning modern modern masters of jazz piano. In this conversation with Jazz88's Peter Solomon, he discusses his musical influences, his current trio, and his profound admiration for his spouse, pianist Renee Rosnes. Charlap is appearing at the Dakota on Saturday, March 22.

Bob James and Dave Koz are titans in the world of contemporary jazz. After years of guesting on each other's productions, the duo decided they would toss off a short CD of duets just as a thank you to guests on one of Dave Koz's jazz oriented cruises. This miniature collaboration led to a full blown duo release recorded in Bob James' home in Michigan. Jazz88's Patty Peterson caught up with James and Koz to get more details about the album and their upcoming show at The Parkway Theater in Minneapolis.

Jazz88's Peter Solomon spoke with Dayna Martinez, the Executive Director of the 2025 Twin Cities Jazz Festival to get a preview of the headlining acts.

Heartland Souvenirs is Becky Schlegel, Katy Tessman and Nikki Lamire. The three songwriters found each other almost by accident. But once they realized their great singing chemistry, they started building a repertoire of their own songs, and songs written by others. The Trio has also recorded its interpretations of songs by John Prine. Heartland Souvenirs performs at 318 Café in Excelsior, 8 till 10pm on Saturday March 8. When they met with Phil Nusbaum, Becky addressed how her interest in Prine was stimulated.