Neon Jazz Interviews

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz Interview Series featuring acclaimed jazz clarinetist Todd Marcus of the Baltimore Jazz Collective.

We dive into the formation of this powerful ensemble and their self-titled 2025 debut album — a project that captures the soul, swing, and spirit of one of America’s most musically rich cities.

Founded by trumpeter Sean Jones, the group reflects the deep musical roots of Baltimore. As Sean says, “Musically, Baltimore is one of the most soulful cities, and you can’t really put the scene in a box.”

This dynamic collective features a lineup of nationally renowned artists:

Together, they create a vibrant, collaborative sound rooted in original compositions and shared creative vision — celebrating community while exploring deeper truths through music.

In this interview, we cover:

🎶 Get the album & learn more:
https://www.baltimorejazzcollective.com/

If you love modern jazz, creative ensembles, and artist-driven music rooted in place and purpose, this is a must-watch.

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Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz Interview Series featuring Vancouver-based jazz vocalist and songwriter Daphne Roubini.

We dive into her 2026 album Whiskey Scented Kisses, a beautifully crafted release that blends original compositions with timeless jazz standards. Inspired by the phrasing and harmonic richness of 1940s and ’50s vocal jazz, the album delivers a sound that feels classic yet unmistakably modern.

Daphne also talks about her ensemble Black Gardenia and their debut release on the acclaimed Cellar Live label, with roots in both Vancouver and New York.

Joining her on this project is an exceptional lineup of Canadian jazz talent, including:

Together, they create a rich, nuanced sound full of chemistry, depth, and quiet authority.

In this interview, we cover:

🎶 Get the album & learn more:
https://www.daphneroubini.ca/

If you love jazz vocals, classic swing influences, and modern interpretations of timeless styles, this is a must-watch.

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Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz Interview Series featuring Miami-based jazz producer and radio host Gene De Souza.

We caught up with Gene to talk about his work with Gafieira Rio Miami and their vibrant 2026 album Beleza Pura — a title that translates to “Pure Beauty.” This exciting release, co-produced by Gene and Diogo Brown, features 10 tracks that capture the joyful, rhythmic, and captivating spirit of Brazilian jazz and samba-infused big band sounds.

In this interview, we dive into:

🎶 Get the album & learn more:
https://www.gafieirariomiami.com/

If you love jazz, Brazilian rhythms, and artist stories, this is one you don’t want to miss.

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Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with Kansas City-based singer and songwriter Delynia Jannell.

This rising artist began singing at just two years old and grew up in Kansas City, developing her voice in the church at Bethel Church of God in Christ, where her father later became pastor. With strong support from her parents, Elder James C. Bailey Jr. and Janet V. Bailey, Delynia’s musical foundation was built on faith, family, and passion.

Over time, her vocal artistry has expanded far beyond gospel—embracing R&B, jazz, blues, pop, neo-soul, and even opera. Known for her powerful voice and emotional delivery, she is quickly making a name for herself as a dynamic and versatile performer.

In this interview, we dive into her journey, live performances, recordings, and what’s ahead for this exciting Kansas City talent.

👉 Learn more: https://thebosskingz.wixsite.com/delyniajannell/bio

🎧 In this episode:

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Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with Indianapolis-based jazz vocalist Rebecca Rafla.

We dive into her 2025 album Fundamentally Unfinished and her evolving journey in the jazz world. Known for her warm tone, lyrical phrasing, and deep respect for tradition, Rebecca is quickly emerging as a compelling new voice in modern jazz.

Drawing inspiration from classic vocalists while embracing a contemporary sensibility, she blends swing, ballads, and modern jazz influences into a sound that feels both timeless and fresh. Her repertoire includes selections from the Great American Songbook along with thoughtful new arrangements that showcase her nuanced storytelling and emotional depth.

This conversation explores artistry, growth, and what it means to carry the jazz tradition forward in a modern era.

👉 Get the album & more: https://www.instagram.com/rebeccarafla/

🎧 In this episode:

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Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with NYC-based jazz pianist and composer Tom Oren.

We dive into his 2026 album Dark Lights on Anzic Records, along with his roots in Tel Aviv and a rapidly rising international career. This trio recording showcases an extraordinary blend of boundary-pushing technique, deep musical imagination, and a rare ability to tell vivid, emotional stories through sound.

A winner of the prestigious Thelonious Monk International Jazz Piano Competition, Oren has established himself as a creative force in modern jazz. Beyond his jazz work, he has also made a strong impact in classical and orchestral settings.

In 2021, he composed a dynamic and kaleidoscopic score for director Avi Nesher’s award-winning film Image of Victory. The soundtrack, released in 2022 on Sony Music Masterworks, highlights his ability to fuse classical influences with a forward-thinking jazz language.

This conversation explores creativity, storytelling through music, and the evolution of a world-class jazz artist.

👉 Get the album & more: https://www.tomoren.com/

🎧 In this episode:

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Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with multi-award-winning vocalist and saxophonist Vanessa Collier.

This powerhouse blues artist is a 2026 Blues Music Awards Triple Nominee and brings her electrifying energy to the stage on her year-long Keep It Saxy Tour. She recently rolled through Kansas City with a standout performance at Knuckleheads on April 9, 2026.

In this interview, we dive into her dynamic career, her evolution as an artist, and her latest album Do It My Own Way (2024). Known for blending funk, soul, rock, and blues, Vanessa delivers a signature sound powered by soulful vocals, fiery saxophone solos, and sharp, witty songwriting.

From picking up the saxophone in the fourth grade to balancing athletics and music, her journey is as compelling as her performances. With a rapidly rising career and a reputation for unforgettable live shows, Vanessa Collier is a force in modern blues you don’t want to miss.

👉 All things Vanessa: https://www.vanessacollier.com/

🎧 In this episode:

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Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz Interview Series. On this episode, we talk with acclaimed jazz bassist, composer, and arranger Corcoran Holt.

We dive into his powerful 2026 release Freedom of Art, a deeply personal and expressive sophomore album that reflects transformation, family, and the enduring spirit of freedom at the heart of jazz.

Throughout his career, Corcoran has performed with some of the genre’s most celebrated artists, including a notable tenure with Kenny Garrett. This new project captures the essence of those experiences while weaving in his own life journey since his 2018 debut The Mecca.

We also explore his path from New York City to Washington and now to Phoenix, along with the evolution of his sound and perspective since we last spoke in 2018.

In this conversation, we cover:

Dig this deep and inspiring jazz conversation.

🎶 Get the album:
https://outsideinmusic.bandcamp.com/album/freedom-of-art 

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Welcome to a special edition of the Neon Jazz Interview Series with a bit of a curveball. During the recording of Episode 953 on April Fool’s Day 2026, Neon Beat host and creator John Christopher flipped the script and asked Neon Jazz host & creator Joe Dimino to reflect on the lore, legacy, and lasting impact of legendary jazz pianist Thelonious Monk.

What followed was an insightful, spontaneous, and thought-provoking conversation about one of the most enigmatic figures in jazz history. From Monk’s unconventional style and compositional brilliance to his enduring influence on modern jazz, this episode dives deep into the mind and mythology of a true icon.

Whether you're a lifelong jazz fan or just discovering Monk’s genius, this candid exchange offers a unique perspective you won’t hear anywhere else.

🎧 In this episode:

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Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with legendary Kansas City-born, Los Angeles-based jazz singer, pianist, and composer Betty Bryant.

At the remarkable age of 96, Betty returns with her 2026 album Nothin’ Better to Do — a recording that radiates the natural confidence of a seasoned club performance, where the music speaks for itself. With a storyteller’s instinct and deep respect for melody, she delivers a timeless jazz experience shaped by decades of artistry, not trends.

Produced by Robert Kyle, the album features an exceptional group of Southern California musicians who create a sound that is both intimate and expansive—perfectly supporting Betty’s voice without overshadowing it.

In this interview, we explore:

🎧 Get the album here:
https://betybryant.bandcamp.com/album/nothin-better-to-do?from=discover_page

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