Neon Jazz Interviews

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with Joe Dimino. In this episode, we talk with Edmonton-based jazz pianist and composer Joshua Banks about his exciting 2025 debut album, Para Sayo.

An emerging voice in contemporary jazz, Joshua Banks has already begun making waves with his thoughtful compositions and dynamic style. The music on Para Sayo was refined over two years, shaped by deep artistic exploration and a clear passion for jazz. His work showcases a fresh yet mature approach that signals the arrival of a thrilling new talent in the modern jazz scene.

We dive into his creative evolution, his love for jazz, and what this release means for the future of his musical journey.

🎶 Get the album: Para Sayo on Bandcamp 

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Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with Joe Dimino. On this episode, we talk with veteran jazz pianist Michael Cain of the Zoo Too Trio about their genre-defying debut album Poetry Legroom, out now on Shifting Paradigm Records.

From his part-time base in Minnesota, Michael opens up about his collaborative work with guitarist Keith Price and drummer Pheeroan akLaff, and how the trio set out to reimagine the traditional jazz piano trio. Their sound fuses elements of contemporary jazz, cinematic soundscapes, pop, and electronic textures, pushing the boundaries of what a jazz trio can sound like in 2025.

Michael Cain brings decades of experience, creativity, and innovation to the conversation, offering insight into the evolution of modern jazz and the artistic intent behind Poetry Legroom.

🎶 Get the album: Poetry Legroom on Bandcamp

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Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with Joe Dimino. On this episode, we talk with acclaimed jazz vocalist, songwriter, and arranger Kristina Koller about her bold and creative 2025 album, Walk on By.

On this fourth album as a leader, Kristina offers a fresh, genre-blending interpretation of the Burt Bacharach songbook, breathing new life into timeless hits while honoring their emotional depth and historical weight. With modern jazz textures, cross-generational influences, and inventive arrangements, she delivers a project that is both nostalgic and forward-thinking.

We explore the creative process behind Walk on By, her live performances, and the evolving state of jazz in 2025 and beyond. The album also serves as a tribute to Bacharach’s legacy, a Kansas City native whose music shaped the past 65 years and whose passing in 2023 marked the end of an era.

🎶 Listen to the album: Walk on By on Apple Music 

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Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series featuring the acclaimed Grammy-winning vocalist Dee Dee Bridgewater and decorated jazz pianist Bill Charlap. We caught up with this powerhouse duo to discuss their stunning new 2025 collaborative album, Elemental. As two of the most respected figures in modern jazz, their partnership showcases a masterful understanding of the jazz tradition.

Although they had never worked together before their impromptu first performance in 2019, their musical chemistry was immediate—and undeniable. Since that moment, they’ve continued to create spellbinding performances, culminating in this remarkable studio recording.

Join us from the road in Oakland as we dive deep into their artistic journey, the making of Elemental, and their shared love of timeless jazz.

🎶 Get the album here: Elemental on Bandcamp 

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Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with award-winning NYC-based composer, drummer, bandleader, and educator John Sturino. We caught up with him in 2025 to discuss his dynamic new album Blow Globe, a genre-blending work that fuses instrumental jazz, classical textures, electronic elements, and singer-songwriter sensibilities.

The project—recipient of the 2024 Chamber Music America New Jazz Works Grant—features a 13-piece ensemble and showcases Stern's fearless creativity and musical depth. From his early days in Wisconsin to his thriving life in New York City’s jazz and new music scenes, John shares insights on his journey, his process, and what this album means in today’s ever-evolving music landscape.

🎶 Get the album & more: https://johnsturino.com/

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Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with Montreal-based jazz vocalist Mira Choquette. We reconnect with Mira in 2025 to explore her stunning new album Hier Encore—a rich and heartfelt collaboration with acclaimed Armenian jazz pianist Samvel Gasparyan.

A gifted multilingual singer, Mira brings fresh life and global flair to timeless jazz classics, putting her own soulful spin on the music of legends like Blossom Dearie, Tadd Dameron, and Thelonious Monk. This project is a continuation of her ever-evolving career and artistic exploration, blending elegance, emotion, and cultural fusion.

After first speaking with Mira in 2023, it’s a joy to welcome her back for this deep dive into the stories behind Hier Encore and the vibrant life of a jazz artist in 2025.

🎶 Get the album: mirachoquette.bandcamp.com

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Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with Portland-based jazz pianist and composer Mike Prigodich. We talk with Mike about his brand new 2025 album Stage Magic and the realization of a lifelong dream—becoming a jazz musician. Known for his innovative compositions and high-energy performances, Mike’s music reflects deep influence from jazz greats like Chick Corea, while fearlessly fusing jazz, Latin, rock, and world music into a sound all his own.

In this episode, we dive into his creative process, the vision behind Stage Magic, and how he continues to push boundaries to captivate global audiences with a truly genre-blending style. His story is a powerful reminder of what passion and perseverance can build.

🎶 Get the music: Mike Prigodich on Bandcamp 

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Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with Boston-based jazz guitarist John Stein. We catch up with him in 2025 during a prolific chapter of his career, marked by the release of two standout albums—Among Friends and Next Gen. These new recordings showcase Stein’s versatility, deep groove, and commitment to both honoring tradition and embracing fresh musical perspectives.

Originally from Kansas City, John reflects on his early roots, artistic evolution, and the ever-changing landscape of the modern jazz world. With a rich background as a performer, composer, and educator, he shares insights into his creative process, the spirit behind these two albums, and what’s next in the pipeline.

🎸 Get the albums & more: johnstein.com 

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Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with award-winning jazz singer Candice Hoyes. We catch up with this Harlem-based visionary to talk about her brand new 2025 single Far Away Star, released in the spirit of Jazz Appreciation Month. The song pays heartfelt tribute to Duke Ellington, blending classic jazz influences with a contemporary sound.

On this powerful track, Candice collaborates with GRAMMY-winning saxophonist Ted Nash and acclaimed trombonist Vincent Gardner, pushing the boundaries of modern jazz while honoring its rich legacy. In our conversation, we dive into the inspiration behind the single, her evolving artistry, and the state of jazz in 2025.

🎶 Listen to the track: Far Away Star on Bandcamp 

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Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with NYC-based, award-winning singer and actress Ute Lemper. We caught up with her to discuss her 2025 album Pirate Jenny, a powerful tribute to composer Kurt Weill in honor of his 125th birthday. With this album, Ute aims to introduce Weill’s iconic music to a new generation, blending rich history with modern resonance.

Renowned worldwide for her interpretations of Berlin cabaret songs, Ute Lemper has had a prolific career spanning over 40 years and more than 30 album releases. Her artistry extends beyond recordings to major stage productions on Broadway, London’s West End, and in Paris.

In this compelling conversation, Ute reflects on her latest project, a lifetime in the arts, and her mission to keep the spirit of classic European music alive for younger audiences.

🎶 Get the album: Pirate Jenny – Ute Lemper (Digital Download) 

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