Neon Jazz Interviews

Neon Jazz Interviews

By Neon Jazz Interviews - The Finest Jazz Musicians From All Over the GlobeArts
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Neon Jazz Interviews episodes

  • Jazz Organist Pat Bianchi Talks New 2026 Album Confluence & More
    Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with acclaimed jazz organist Pat Bianchi on his powerful new 2026 album Confluence.
    We originally caught up with Pat back in 2018 following a memorable performance at The Blue Room in Kansas City, and now we reconnect in 2026 to dive into a thrilling new chapter in his musical journey.
    Confluence is a high-energy organ trio recording that captures the raw immediacy and fearless creativity of three master musicians pushing themselves to the edge. Joined by two of New York City’s finest — saxophonist Troy Roberts and drummer Colin Stranahan — the album channels the spirit of a live performance with spontaneous interplay, deep groove, explosive improvisation, and modern jazz intensity.
    Widely regarded as one of the leading jazz organists of his generation, Pat Bianchi continues carrying the rich Hammond B-3 tradition forward while adding his own contemporary voice and adventurous musical perspective. In this conversation, we discuss the making of Confluence, the evolution of organ jazz, live performances, touring, creativity, jazz in America in 2026, and the ongoing power of improvisation and connection through music.
    This is a lively and insightful conversation with one of modern jazz’s most respected organists. Dig this interview.
    Get the album:
    Pat Bianchi Bandcamp - Confluence
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    13 min
  • Russian-Born, NYC Jazz Singer Anna Kolchina on 2026 Album & Her Career
    Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with Russian-born, NYC-based jazz vocalist Anna Kolchina.
    We caught up with this rising jazz vocalist to discuss her beautiful new 2026 album Reach for Tomorrow and her remarkable journey through the world of jazz music. Born in the Soviet Union nearly 18 hours from Moscow, Anna’s early life was shaped by a deep fascination with horses — symbols of strength, grace, movement, and poetic freedom that would later influence her artistic voice and musical expression.
    Her path led through the music conservatory in St. Petersburg and eventually to Italy, where a life-changing meeting with legendary jazz vocalist Sheila Jordan encouraged her to pursue jazz more deeply and ultimately move to New York City. After releasing her debut album on the acclaimed Japanese Venus label with her Italian ensemble, Anna relocated to NYC in 2017 and has continued building an impressive international jazz career ever since.
    Reach for Tomorrow showcases Anna Kolchina’s emotional depth, vocal sophistication, storytelling ability, and evolving artistry within the modern jazz landscape. In this interview, we discuss jazz vocals, improvisation, international jazz culture, artistic growth, moving to New York, musical mentorship, creativity, European jazz influences, and the inspiration behind her latest album.
    Her journey and music are inspiring. Enjoy this interview.
    Get the album:
    https://originarts.com/oa2/recordings/recording.php?TitleID=22247
    Subscribe for more Neon Jazz interviews fe
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    http://theneonjazz.blogspot.com/
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    22 min
  • Chicago Jazz Pianist Julian Davis Reid Talks New Album Vocation & His Career
    Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with up-and-coming Chicago-based jazz pianist, writer, and composer Julian Davis Reid.
    We dive deep into his outstanding 2026 album Vocation and his evolving journey in the world of jazz. Known for his acclaimed work with The Ju Ju Exchange and Isaiah Collier, Julian is steadily building a powerful artistic identity of his own through music that blends jazz, gospel, spirituality, storytelling, and emotional depth.
    Vocation is an immersive and richly layered exploration of sound and narrative rooted in jazz while reaching deeply into gospel traditions and collective human experience. The album highlights the depth and versatility of Reid’s ensemble, with each musician contributing meaningfully to the project’s lush emotional arc and dynamic musical textures.
    At his core, Julian Davis Reid is an artist-theologian whose work invites listeners to rejoice, lament, reflect, and hope together through music. His creative voice bridges improvisation, faith, social consciousness, and modern jazz expression in ways that feel deeply personal and universally resonant.
    Having toured throughout Asia, Europe, and North America, Julian continues expanding his reach as one of the compelling emerging voices in contemporary jazz. In this conversation, we discuss composition, spirituality, gospel influences, improvisation, jazz piano, touring, collaboration, creative identity, and the inspiration behind Vocation.
    Enjoy this artist and conversation.
    Get the album:
    https://juliandavisreid.bandcamp.com/album/vocation
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    http://theneonjazz.blogspot.com/
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    25 min
  • Faroese Jazz Bassist Arnold Ludvig Talks Live @ Maggies '18, Career & Nordic Jazz
    Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with veteran Faroe Islands-based jazz bassist and composer Arnold Ludvig.
    We caught up with Arnold to discuss the 2025 release of his quintet album Live @ Maggies '18, his remarkable journey through the music world, and winning the 2026 Faroese Music Award for Special Release of the Year.
    This powerful live recording documents music Arnold Ludvig composed across different chapters of his life, with songs written between 1993 and 2014 in Reykjavik, Montreal, Copenhagen, and Torshavn. The album beautifully weaves together Celtic folk traditions, modern Nordic jazz, blues influences, and African-American jazz into a deeply personal and expansive musical statement.
    A bassist since 1980 and composer since 1991, Arnold has spent decades developing a distinctive sound rooted in storytelling, atmosphere, improvisation, and cultural connection. His music reflects the landscapes and experiences of the Faroe Islands while embracing the broader global traditions of jazz and folk music.
    In this interview, we discuss composition, Nordic jazz, live performance, bass playing, jazz improvisation, European jazz culture, blues influence, the Faroese music scene, and the inspiration behind Live @ Maggies '18.
    It’s a stellar musical journey full of wisdom, artistry, and global perspective. Dig this interview.
    Get music & more:
    https://arnoldludvig.com/
    https://www.tutlrecords.com/
    For More Neon Jazz:
    Shows via MixCloud: https://www.mixcloud.com/neonjazzkc/
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    http://theneonjazz.blogspot.com/
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    26 min
  • Joey Devassy & Interplay Jazz Orchestra on New Album Bite Your Tongue, Band History & More
    Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with jazz trombonist Joey Devassy of the Interplay Jazz Orchestra.
    We caught up with Joey to talk about the orchestra’s outstanding new 2026 album Bite Your Tongue, his personal journey into jazz, and the continuing evolution of the Interplay Jazz Orchestra.
    Formed in 2013 as an offshoot of the Hofstra Alumni Jazz Orchestra, the Interplay Jazz Orchestra emerged from a shared desire to create a more composer-driven vision for the modern jazz orchestra. Led by Joey Devassy and Gary Henderson, the ensemble operates as a true collective — showcasing original compositions and arrangements that reflect the unique voices of its members while giving nearly every musician an opportunity to shine as a soloist.
    The new album Bite Your Tongue moves effortlessly through a wide range of jazz styles and textures, including straight-ahead swing, samba, ballads, slow blues, hard bop, and funk. It’s a dynamic and richly layered recording that highlights both ensemble precision and adventurous improvisation.
    In this interview, we discuss jazz composition, arranging, big band leadership, improvisation, modern jazz orchestra culture, trombone performance, ensemble collaboration, New York jazz, and the creative process behind this exciting new release.
    This is a conversation jazz fans, musicians, composers, and lovers of big band innovation will truly appreciate. Dig this interview.
    Get the album and more:
    https://interplayjazzorchestra.com/
    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/
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    28 min
  • Back Alley Brass Band's Matt Fillingham on Some Bright Morning | New Orleans Energy to KC Jazz
    Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with Matt Fillingham of the Back Alley Brass Band on their 2026 album Some Bright Morning.
    The popular Kansas City-based brass band returns with another vibrant and energetic project filled with music they’ve performed and developed over the last several years. Rooted in the spirit and swagger of New Orleans brass band tradition, Some Bright Morning captures the infectious live energy, soulful grooves, and celebratory atmosphere that has helped Back Alley Brass Band become one of the Midwest’s rising live music acts.
    In this conversation, Matt reflects on the band’s journey, the making of the new album, live performances, brass band culture, Kansas City’s evolving music scene, and upcoming World Cup-related gigs happening in Kansas City during the summer of 2026.
    Known for blending jazz, funk, second line rhythms, and New Orleans bravado, Back Alley Brass Band continues building a loyal following through electrifying performances and community-driven music experiences.
    We dive into the new record, touring, live music, KC culture, brass band influences, and what lies ahead for this exciting ensemble. Tune in.
    Get the album & more:
    https://backalleybrassband.bandcamp.com/album/some-bright-morning
    https://www.backalleybrass.com/
    https://backalleybrassband.bandcamp.com/
    For More Neon Jazz:
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    The Home of Neon Jazz:
    http://theneonjazz.blogspot.com/
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    https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=ER Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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    17 min
  • Kansas City Jazz Trumpeter Alex Abramovitz | 2026 Live Album Jumpin’ on Grand Live at Black Dolphin
    Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with jazz trumpeter, bandleader, and Kansas City jazz mainstay Alex Abramovitz on the new 2026 album Jumpin’ on Grand Live at Black Dolphin with his Swing’n Kansas City Jazz Band.
    We caught up with this veteran KC musician to discuss the rich Kansas City jazz scene, his longtime performances at iconic venues like the Green Lady Lounge and Black Dolphin, the making of this exciting live album, and the deep tradition of swing jazz that continues to thrive in KCMO.
    Recorded live at Black Dolphin on October 18, 2025 during one of the band’s regular Saturday night “swing shift” performances, the album captures the authentic energy, improvisation, and timeless spirit of live Kansas City jazz. From his early musical experiences playing with John Scott to assembling one of the city’s premier swing ensembles, Alex shares stories, history, and insight from decades in the jazz world.
    The official CD release event takes place Saturday, June 13 from 9:45 PM to 1 AM at Black Dolphin, located at 1813 Grand Blvd. in Downtown Kansas City, Missouri.
    In this interview, we discuss live jazz performance, Kansas City swing, jazz history, improvisation, jazz clubs, recording live albums, the modern KC jazz scene, bandleading, and the enduring power of traditional jazz music.
    This is a great conversation for jazz lovers, musicians, and anyone passionate about live music and Kansas City culture. Dig in.
    Get the album and more:
    https://www.swingnkansascityjazz.com/
    https://greenladylounge.com/lp.html
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    Shows via MixCloud: https://www.mixcloud.com/neonjazzkc/
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    http://theneonjazz.blogspot.com/
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    13 min
  • Mark Wade on the 2026 Album New Stages, Contemporary Jazz & Creative Evolution
    Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with acclaimed jazz bassist, composer, and bandleader Mark Wade on his 2026 release New Stages with his trio on Dot Time Records.
    This latest project marks not only a brand-new album, but also a major turning point in Mark’s creative evolution — a moment where years of innovation, artistry, and experience merge with exciting future ambitions. New Stages is a collection of original jazz works inspired by treasured classical music that Mark has developed a deep personal connection with over many years, now reimagined through the lens of modern jazz trio performance.
    Mark Wade continues to establish himself as a contemporary composer with a truly global musical perspective, blending jazz improvisation, classical influences, lyrical storytelling, and adventurous composition into a deeply expressive sound.
    We first interviewed Mark back in 2018 and again in 2022, and now four years later he returns to Neon Jazz to discuss this fresh new chapter, his evolving artistry, the trio dynamic, composition, recording, performance, and the inspiration behind New Stages.
    This is another thoughtful and compelling conversation with one of modern jazz’s most creative voices. Enjoy this interview.
    Get the album:
    https://dottimerecords.bandcamp.com/album/new-stages
    For More Neon Jazz:
    Shows via MixCloud: https://www.mixcloud.com/neonjazzkc/
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    http://theneonjazz.blogspot.com/
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    19 min
  • From Medicine to Music | Mark Tonelli Talks Brasiliana, Jazz Guitar & Brazilian Music
    Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with Illinois-based jazz guitarist, composer, educator, and Fulbright Scholar Mark Tonelli. We got into his new 2026 album Brasiliana and his fascinating path through the world of jazz and Brazilian music.
    This breakthrough release blends the vibrant rhythms, melodies, and spirit of Brazilian music with the creativity and improvisation of contemporary jazz. Featuring an all-star Brazilian cast of musicians, Brasiliana is the result of years of cultural immersion, collaboration, travel, and musical exploration.
    Between 2022 and 2025, Mark made thirteen trips to Brazil. His first visit came as a Fulbright Scholar teaching music at a university, and just a few years later he returned as a Fulbright Scholar once again — this time to create and record Brasiliana.
    Mark’s life story is equally compelling. His path moved from medicine to architecture before ultimately leading him fully into music, jazz guitar, education, composition, and international artistic collaboration.
    In this interview, we discuss Brazilian jazz, guitar improvisation, cultural exchange, Fulbright experiences, composition, jazz education, travel, creativity, world music influences, live performance, and the inspiration behind Brasiliana.
    We also dive into the remarkable journey that shaped his life and music. Dig this interview.
    Get the album:
    https://marktonelli.bandcamp.com/album/brasiliana
    For More Neon Jazz:
    Shows via MixCloud: https://www.mixcloud.com/neonjazzkc/
    Subscribe via Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/user/neonjazzkc
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    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 https://pcm.adswizz.com
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    22 min
  • David Schroeder on Sonny Rollins, Jazz Wisdom, Podcasting & 2026 Album A Kind of Gentle Light

    Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with jazz professor, musician, author, interviewer, and podcast host David Schroeder. We are honored to welcome David back to the show to discuss his moving new 2026 album A Kind of Gentle Light along with his fascinating work interviewing some of the most important figures in jazz history.

    Following a landmark year spent in intimate conversations with 95-year-old jazz icon Sonny Rollins, the families of Duke Ellington and Stan Getz, and the inner circle of David Sanborn, this NYU Professor of Jazz Studies continues to bridge music, storytelling, history, and humanity in powerful ways.

    A Kind of Gentle Light offers a deeply meditative and emotionally resonant musical dialogue centered on compassion, reflection, and shared human experience. The album features David’s expressive work on chromatic harmonica, bass flute, and the Mongolian ever buree — a rare and hypnotic instrument he mastered during time spent performing in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. Joining him is acclaimed Italian pianist Antonio Figura, helping shape an album filled with beauty, atmosphere, and emotional depth.

    In this interview, we discuss jazz history, improvisation, podcasting, storytelling, education, world music influences, composition, spirituality in music, modern jazz, and the inspiration behind A Kind of Gentle Light.

    We cover a wide range of fascinating territory on this memorable rendezvous on Neon Jazz. Dig this conversation.

    Listen to the album:
    https://music.apple.com/us/album/kind-and-gentle-light/1867658291
    https://open.spotify.com/track/4PEnGGyEP5vzYTFA3eOVg0?si=cdd4c0ab7aa44313&nd=1&dlsi=dcb35b5ed889404a

    For More Neon Jazz:

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    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:                   

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    40 min

About Neon Jazz Interviews

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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…

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