In this episode of the JAZZIZ Podcast, we’re speaking with trumpeter, multi-instrumentalist, composer and producer Gabriel Mark Hasselbach, a top star of both contemporary and straight-ahead jazz with several excellent, award-winning recordings under his belt. He’s here to share insights about his latest album, Count Your Lucky Stars, which will be released on July 8. In our conversation, Hasselbach talks about his earliest formative musical memories and the process of crafting his distinctive sound. Turning our attention to his latest album, Hasselbach discusses the inspiration behind Count Your Lucky Stars and the aura that he sought to achieve for it. We also discuss a recent compilation of his, The Vocalists, highlighting some of his collaborations with top vocalists over the years, and much more.

In this episode of the JAZZIZ Podcast, we speak with singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and dancer Gunhild Carling. She shares with us news and insights about her upcoming album, aptly titled Jazz Is My Lifestyle. The record is a large ensemble project compiling a program of original compositions. Beyond the new album, we find out more about Carling's journey, her love of vintage jazz and how it is integrated into her unique sound. We also discuss her prolific composing habits, her experience of traveling and taking her music all over the world, and much more.

Award-winning saxophonist and composer Kirk Whalum has been a major force in contemporary jazz for nearly two decades. In this episode of the JAZZIZ Podcast, he discusses his latest album, Epic Cool, his first studio full-length release in five years, available via Mack Avenue. The album explores a variety of moods, styles, and genres, showcasing Whalum's talent for blending diverse musical elements. During the conversation, we talked about the genesis of Epic Cool, the influences that helped shape it, as well as his collaboration with Greg Manning on this project. We also explored his musical journey, including his historic collaborations, the lessons he's learned along the way, the importance of "appreciating the moment," and his profound connection with his audience. (Photo: Evelyn Freja)

The internationally renowned Brazilian jazz master Antonio Adolfo joins us once again on the JAZZIZ Podcast to talk about his latest album, Love Cole Porter, an instrumental celebration of the legacy of the legendary Great American Songbook composer of such immortal classics as "Ev'ry Time We Say Goodbye," "I've Got You Under My Skin," "Night and Day" and many more. This album finds Adolfo blending the genius and aura of some of his most renowned compositions with the rhythms, sounds and traditions of his Brazilian heritage, with tracks performed by an octet of excellent musicians. In this podcast, Adolfo delves into the process of reimagining these timeless songs and expresses his admiration for Porter and his legacy, as well as highlighting the people he collaborated with on Love Cole Porter.

In this episode of the JAZZIZ Podcast, GRAMMY-winning guitarist Norman Brown joins us to discuss his latest album, It Hits Different. Brown shares insights into the eleven original compositions that blend jazz, funk, blues, R&B, and more. Inspired by the album’s title, we ask Brown what sets this record apart from his previous work throughout his stellar career. Additionally, we explore the contributions of those who helped bring this project to life and delve into Brown’s personal journey, including the positive influence of meditation and Tai Chi on his life. (Photo: Corey Reese/Shanachie Entertainment)

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.