Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series. In this episode, we talk with Peru-based jazz flutist, composer, sound artist, researcher, and music curator Camilo Ángeles about the newly released album Algol by his electroacoustic trio of the same name. The group features Camilo Ángeles, German drummer and producer Christian Lillinger, and Austrian composer and performer Elias Stemeseder—three internationally acclaimed artists working at the forefront of electroacoustic experimentation, improvised music, contemporary composition, and avant-garde jazz. The Algol project was born during a collaborative tour and recording sessions in early 2024, spanning Mexico City and Guadalajara, and has since expanded through performances across Europe and Latin America. The album captures a fearless approach to sound, texture, and improvisation, pushing the boundaries of modern jazz and experimental music. This conversation explores the album, the trio’s history, creative process, and the evolving language of electroacoustic and avant-garde jazz. 🎧 Get the album Algol:https://buhrecords.bandcamp.com/album/algol For More Neon Jazz: Shows via MixCloud: https://www.mixcloud.com/neonjazzkc/Subscribe via Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/user/neonjazzkcSubscribe 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:                   https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=ER Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series. In this episode, we catch up with French-born jazz composer and pianist Laurent Ziliani to discuss his powerful new 2025 CD Skybound, along with composing, life in the music world, and the role of travel in shaping his sound. Skybound is a deeply personal musical tribute to Laurent’s dear friend, the late violinist and pilot Ben Powell. Written shortly after Ben’s passing, the work was later recorded by an ensemble of first-class musicians, many of whom were close friends and long-time collaborators. Joining Laurent on this recording are Peter Erskine (drums), Nicholas Daley (trombone), Nick Mancini (vibraphone), Kyle Newmaster (trumpet & flugelhorns), Darius Scheider (guitar), Michael Valerio (upright bass), Leah Zeger (violin), and Zac Zinger (saxophones, alto flute & clarinets)—a lineup that brings depth, emotion, and modern jazz sophistication to the project. A native of Cannes, France, Laurent studied music while pursuing a Master of Science, before committing fully to music at the renowned Berklee College of Music, where he earned a Bachelor of Music in Film Scoring. 🎶 This conversation explores the story behind Skybound, Laurent’s compositional voice, and the intersection of jazz, cinematic writing, and lived experience. 🎧 Get the album Skybound:https://www.crossovermedia.net/artists/laurent-ziliani/projects/skybound/album/ For More Neon Jazz: Shows via MixCloud: https://www.mixcloud.com/neonjazzkc/Subscribe via Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/user/neonjazzkcSubscribe 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:                   https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=ER Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series. In this episode, we talk with Miami-based celebrated Brazilian percussionist and multi-instrumentalist Gilmar Gomes about his debut 2025 album 11:11 and a remarkable life in music that has taken him across the globe. The number 11 holds deep meaning for Gilmar, and fittingly, the album was released on 11/11/25. 11:11 is a vibrant record full of dynamic percussion and global pop sophistication—often described as having a “Brazilian Sting” spirit—while expanding the boundaries of modern world music. Gilmar blends Brazilian samba, salsa, Afro-Cuban influences, roots sounds, and cross-cultural collaborations into an eclectic and forward-thinking musical vision. Since 2001, Gilmar has been a core member of Enrique Iglesias’ touring and recording band, playing a crucial role in the pop star’s live performances worldwide. Over the years, he has also toured and recorded with an extraordinary range of artists including Harry Belafonte, Shakira, Rihanna, Esperanza Spalding, and many others.  🎶 This conversation explores the making of 11:11, Gilmar’s global musical journey, and the evolving language of percussion in contemporary world music. 🔗 More Gilmar Gomes: https://www.instagram.com/gilmargomes/🎧 Listen to 11:11: https://music.apple.com/za/album/11-11/1849733056 For More Neon Jazz: Shows via MixCloud: https://www.mixcloud.com/neonjazzkc/Subscribe via Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/user/neonjazzkcSubscribe 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:                   https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=ER Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series. On this episode, we talk with LA-based jazz vocalist and bandleader Nutty Sonny Moon, the creative force behind Nutty Jazz—a wildly entertaining project that reimagines classic rock and pop songs through a jazz lens. With a unique approach, Nutty rearranges familiar hits by blending them with straight-ahead jazz, big band, Latin, lounge, and even quotes from legendary jazz artists as an homage. Known for their ‘50s–‘60s swank retro style and irreverent humor, Nutty Jazz delivers a show that feels equal parts Rat Pack cool and modern mash-up. Their repertoire also includes film and TV themes, making every performance a playful, high-energy celebration of jazz culture. They regularly entertain packed crowds at LA’s historic Baked Potato and venues beyond. In this conversation, we dig into Nutty’s long history in music, the formation of Nutty Jazz, the philosophy behind genre-blending, and what makes their live shows so memorable. We also preview their upcoming performance at Liberty Hall in Lawrence on February 28, 2026, celebrating the KPR / Retro Cocktail Hour 30th Anniversary. 🎤 Dig this hip hep cat and the music. 👉 More on Nutty Sonny Moon & Nutty Jazz:https://www.nuttyjazz.com/ 🔔 Subscribe for more Neon Jazz interviews with jazz innovators, bandleaders, and genre-benders. For More Neon Jazz: Shows via MixCloud: https://www.mixcloud.com/neonjazzkc/Subscribe via Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/user/neonjazzkcSubscribe 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:                   https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=ER Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series. On this episode, we talk with acclaimed jazz pianist and vocalist Rich Siegel about his new 2025 album It’s Always Been You and a full, wide-ranging life in music. On this release, Rich is joined by bassist Cameron Brown and drummer Tony Jefferson, delivering a program that highlights his expressive singing, piano playing, and songwriting. A longtime fixture in New York-area clubs, Rich has built a versatile career performing with his trio, accompanying numerous vocalists, leading orchestras at prestigious ballroom dances, and even appearing as a musician-actor in theatrical productions. It’s Always Been You reflects that depth—balancing swing, lyricism, and seasoned musical storytelling. In this conversation, we dig into the making of the album, his approach to songwriting, and the experiences that shaped his sound over decades on the bandstand. 🎹 Dig this interview. 👉 Get the album It’s Always Been You:https://richsiegel.bandcamp.com/ 🔔 Subscribe for more Neon Jazz interviews with jazz artists, composers, and vocalists from around the world. For More Neon Jazz: Shows via MixCloud: https://www.mixcloud.com/neonjazzkc/Subscribe via Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/user/neonjazzkcSubscribe 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:                   https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=ER Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series. On this episode, we talk with Italian-born, London-based jazz pianist Bruno D’Ambra about his new 2025 single Ain’t Nobody and an unconventional, deeply personal journey through jazz. Bruno’s recent work breaks from traditional jazz production methods, created instead through his innovative project My Session Band—a remote recording hub designed to connect musicians and spark new global collaborations. Bruno’s last three singles were crafted using this remote model, highlighting his vision of making his band accessible to artists seeking fresh musical partnerships. Born in Naples, Italy, and raised far from conservatories and concert halls, Bruno developed an intense ear for sound at a young age. In a small apartment with a battered upright piano, music became his refuge—helping him navigate childhood loss and the turbulence of adolescence. In this conversation, we explore his creative process, the philosophy behind My Session Band, the evolution of Ain’t Nobody, and how technology is reshaping the future of jazz collaboration. 🎹 Dig into this story and the sound. 👉 Get Bruno D’Ambra’s music & more:https://brunodambramusic.com/ 🔔 Subscribe for more Neon Jazz interviews with today’s jazz innovators and storytellers. For More Neon Jazz: Shows via MixCloud: https://www.mixcloud.com/neonjazzkc/Subscribe via Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/user/neonjazzkcSubscribe 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:                   https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=ER Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series. On this episode, we talk with Michigan-based jazz trumpeter and educator Anthony Stanco about his new 2025 album In the Groove and a jazz life that began in Detroit. A deeply swinging and soulful release, In the Groove is packed with deep-pocket grooves and the buoyant spirit of hard bop, reflecting both tradition and modern energy. A Southeast Michigan native, Anthony draws heavily from Detroit’s rich musical heritage. Under the mentorship of influential figures like Marcus Belgrave and Rodney Whitaker, he developed a strong musical foundation and a distinctive trumpet voice rooted in swing, clarity, and groove. Alongside his performing and recording career, Anthony is an assistant professor at Michigan State University, where he teaches and mentors the next generation of jazz musicians. In this conversation, we explore his journey, the making of In the Groove, the Detroit jazz lineage, and his passion for education. 🎧 Dig this story and the groove-filled conversation. 👉 Get the album In the Groove:https://originarts.com/oa2/recordings/recording.php?TitleID=22242 For More Neon Jazz: Shows via MixCloud: https://www.mixcloud.com/neonjazzkc/Subscribe via Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/user/neonjazzkcSubscribe 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:                   https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=ER Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series. On this episode, we talk with Miami-based jazz pianist Martin Bejerano about The Purple Project and more, taking a deep dive into his 2025 release The Purple Project: A Reimagining of the Work of Prince and his vibrant life in live music. Martin has seen Prince many times in concert and was deeply influenced by the way Prince often performed his own songs in radically different ways from night to night. A lifelong lover and aficionado of jazz—shaped in part by his father, a jazz pianist—Prince embodied relentless creativity and innovation. These jazz arrangements were inspired by that same spirit of fearless reinvention. The Purple Project reimagines Prince’s music through a jazz lens while honoring the essence of his songwriting, groove, and improvisational daring. In this conversation, we explore the album’s origins, the challenges of interpretation, and how Prince’s creative philosophy aligns naturally with jazz. Over the course of his career, Martin Bejerano has performed with an extraordinary list of jazz luminaries, including Russell Malone, Roy Haynes, the Christian McBride Band, Dave Holland, Pat Metheny, and Ron Carter. We cover this Prince homage, his journey as an artist, and much more. 🎧 Enjoy this deep and soulful conversation. 👉 Get the album and learn more:https://www.martinbejerano.com/ 🔔 Subscribe for more in-depth conversations with jazz musicians, composers, and creative innovators. For More Neon Jazz: Shows via MixCloud: https://www.mixcloud.com/neonjazzkc/Subscribe via Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/user/neonjazzkcSubscribe 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:                   https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=ER Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series. On this episode, we talk with NYC-based jazz bassist and composer Jakob Dreyer about his 2025 album Roots and Things, a vibrant and forward-looking statement from one of modern jazz’s most versatile voices. German-born and deeply rooted in the New York jazz scene, Jakob assembled a formidable ensemble for this project, featuring vibraphone sensation Sasha Berliner, acclaimed tenor saxophonist Tivon Pennicott, and in-demand drummer Kenn Salters. Together, they created a session full of energy, clarity, and contemporary swing. Jakob’s third release for the Barcelona-based Fresh Sound New Talent label, Roots and Things delivers 15 swinging original compositions that reflect both tradition and the modern world we’re navigating. In this conversation, we explore the album’s concept, the creative process, collaboration, and how today’s jazz artists balance roots with forward motion. 🎧 Dig this deep dive into modern jazz composition and performance. 👉 Get the album Roots and Things: https://freshsoundrecords1.bandcamp.com/album/roots-and-things?from=discover_page  For More Neon Jazz: Shows via MixCloud: https://www.mixcloud.com/neonjazzkc/Subscribe via Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/user/neonjazzkcSubscribe 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:                   https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=ER Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series. On this episode, we sit down with internationally renowned jazz drummer, percussionist, clinician, author, and educator Steve Houghton, joining him from his base in Indiana to talk about his new 2025 album And Then Some and a remarkable life dedicated to jazz. This new recording was a pure joy for Steve, bringing together longtime friends and centering on music he truly loves. The album reflects the depth, swing, and musical wisdom earned over decades of performing, teaching, and recording at the highest level. Steve first gained international acclaim at just 20 years old as the drummer for Woody Herman’s Young Thundering Herd, launching a career that has since included collaborations with jazz greats such as Freddie Hubbard, Dave Samuels, Dave Stryker, Walter Smith III, Harold Land, Bobby Hutcherson, and many more. In this wide-ranging conversation, we explore his early years, his evolution as an artist and educator, the creative process behind And Then Some, and what lies ahead for one of jazz’s most respected master musicians. 🎧 Dig in and enjoy this deep dive into jazz history, artistry, and forward momentum. 👉 Get Steve Houghton’s music:https://houghtonmusic.com/recordings/ For More Neon Jazz: Shows via MixCloud: https://www.mixcloud.com/neonjazzkc/Subscribe via Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/user/neonjazzkcSubscribe 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:                   https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=ER Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series. On this episode, we sit down with trumpeter Paul Litteral, label owner Angela O’Neill, and producer Greg Curtis to discuss the powerful 2025 album The Literal Truth—a release shaped by resilience after their studio was destroyed during the California wildfires. The Literal Truth is a vibrant fusion of jazz, funk, and rock, showcasing Paul Litteral’s unmistakable trumpet voice—defined by soulful tone, inventive phrasing, and fearless genre-blending. The album offers bold reimaginings of classic covers, with fresh arrangements drawn straight from Paul’s musical vision, including inspired takes on songs by Steely Dan, Edgar Winter, and a few unexpected surprises. We talk about the creative process, the challenges of rebuilding after loss, and how adversity fueled a record that feels both urgent and celebratory. This conversation covers the full story behind the music, the production, and the passion that brought The Literal Truth to life. 🎧 Enjoy this deep dive into modern jazz fusion and creative perseverance. 👉 Get the album The Literal Truth:https://www.angelamaeoneill.com/new-products/thelitteraltruth 🔔 Subscribe for more conversations with jazz artists, composers, producers, and innovators from around the world. For More Neon Jazz: Shows via MixCloud: https://www.mixcloud.com/neonjazzkc/Subscribe via Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/user/neonjazzkcSubscribe 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:                   https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=ER Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series. In this episode, we catch up with Montreal-based jazz singer and composer Marie-Soleil Lambert to talk about her 2025 release Anastasia and a life deeply devoted to music, growth, and creative exploration. Always evolving as both a musician and composer, Marie-Soleil leads her sextet Sun Fantasia, formed in 2022, as she continues to carve out a distinctive voice in contemporary jazz. Craving a new sound, she blends influences from Chick Corea, Weather Report, Joni Mitchell, and Frank Zappa, fusing genres and stylistic approaches to create something original, personal, and forward-thinking. We dive into the making of Anastasia, her compositional process, the vision behind Sun Fantasia, and the musical journey that continues to shape her artistry. It’s a wide-ranging and inspiring conversation with a rising voice in modern jazz. 🎙️ Enjoy this interview. 🎶 Get the album:https://mariesoleilmusic.com/track/4525714/anastasia For More Neon Jazz: Shows via MixCloud: https://www.mixcloud.com/neonjazzkc/Subscribe via Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/user/neonjazzkcSubscribe 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:                   https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=ER Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series. In this episode, we catch up with European jazz saxophonist and composer Nikola Bankov, one of the brightest new voices in contemporary European jazz, just before a live gig to talk about his 2025 release Everwanted—his third album as a leader and a bold step forward in sound and vision. On Everwanted, Bankov fuses high-energy modern jazz with Nordic synth-pop textures, creating a vibrant and forward-thinking record that appeals to both younger listeners and seasoned jazz aficionados. Featuring his close collaborators, the album feels cohesive, ambitious, and refreshingly modern. This marks our second conversation with Nikola, who is a Danish Music Awards winner and a Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree. We discuss the evolution of his music, the making of Everwanted, live performance energy, and the future of jazz in Europe and beyond. It’s a powerful snapshot of an artist hitting his stride. 🎙️ Enjoy the interview. 🎶 Get the album & learn more:https://www.nikolabankov.com/  For More Neon Jazz: Shows via MixCloud: https://www.mixcloud.com/neonjazzkc/Subscribe via Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/user/neonjazzkcSubscribe 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:                   https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=ER Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series. In this episode, we sit down with esteemed Bronx-based drummer, composer, and arranger Greg Burrows to explore his powerful 2025 release, Let’s Not Wait: The Music of Ed Bonoff, along with an eclectic and deeply personal journey through the jazz world. This album stands as only the second recording ever dedicated exclusively to the compositions and arrangements of the legendary New York composer, arranger, and drummer Ed Bonoff. Remarkably, Bonoff remains vitally active today—continuing to compose, arrange, and perform his weekly drum gig at Arthur’s Tavern in Manhattan’s West Village. Greg Burrows is a longtime friend and musical partner of Bonoff’s, bringing authenticity and lived experience to the project. During the interview, we revisit a seminal Kansas City memory at Charlie Parker’s gravesite, reflect on creative partnerships, and trace a career filled with defining moments and musical highlights. From New York jazz history to personal connection, this conversation dives deep into the meaning behind the music. 🎙️ Dig this interview. 🎶 Get the album:https://gregburrows.bandcamp.com/ For More Neon Jazz: Shows via MixCloud: https://www.mixcloud.com/neonjazzkc/Subscribe via Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/user/neonjazzkcSubscribe 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:                   https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=ER Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s a little over a week away before this year known as 2025 comes to a close. And as I collect a cachet of memories and thoughts from the year that is gone by .. I think about all of the good in the highlights and the magic that took place this year. There are three things that rise to the top of this year that is gone by & it includes a near improbable run that I started to get my childhood hero Dwight Gooden rightfully into the halls of Cooperstown. This isn’t directly a jazz event, but it infused and informed so much of the positivity that happened over this year. It also included being a part of flying in a father/daughter Duo to Kansas City on international jazz day 2025 to see the Count Basie Orchestra .. thus completing a Dream for a man That loves Count Basie and jazz to the core of his heart. Essentially, it was a Fan letter that turned into something much much bigger thank you so much Tracy & John - I will forever hold you and High regard for such a wonderful moment. It is also the resounding thought that Neon Jazz has been around for 14 years and how cool it is that this entire ride has been orchestrated under the guise of being an independently run jazz show and interview series. All of this has been done strictly on the premise of Freedom. Every time I speak with Jazz Musicians about why they love this craft, they always point out freedom and I realize over this 14 year tenure that I’ve learned so much from all of the jazz musicians that I have been fortunate enough to interview. They have taught me about improv .. they have taught me about the temporal nature of music & how it evaporates into the air and they have taught me what it’s like to embrace and love freedom that I think in these strange politically divided 2025 days there’s nothing more important than tasting that freedom. And I think that is the theme of this year & the plight of this little radio show entering its 15th year in April of 2026. And I’m also enormously grateful to my good friend .. show engineer and mentor John Christopher for always being there and for being the reason and inspiration behind me getting back into a broadcasting dream when I never thought it was not going to happen. In all of the veins of this year and the major stories .. they revolve all the shows and all the musicians and all the interviews that have woven together a tapestry of America’s mighty invention known as jazz music … & I thank you for being along for the ride and for supporting me and for all the kind words and for you to know that we are strong as ever as we enter our 15th year of broadcasting this wonderful music to this epic community of jazz from Kansas City to the world, the musicians, and beyond..so thank you and here we go again… Music by E.E. Pointer .. The Playah - Single - 2010 More Neon Jazz - https://theneonjazz.blogspot.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series. In this episode, we sit down with jazz trombonist and composer JC Sanford to explore his 2025 release Denki, recorded with his band EQ (Electric Quartet). This eighth album as a leader is a creative tour de force—electric, exploratory, and deeply personal. The title Denki—Japanese for “electricity”—pays tribute to Sanford’s mentor Bob Brookmeyer, who released an album of the same name in 1994 with the WDR Big Band. Drawing from that lineage while pushing boldly forward, Sanford delivers a modern jazz statement fueled by spontaneity, evolution, and raw inspiration. Throughout his career, JC Sanford’s musical life has taken many shapes and forms, always guided by curiosity and forward motion. Denki is a natural step in that evolutionary flow—embracing the moment when inspiration strikes and capturing it with urgency and clarity. We talk about the album, live performances, modern living, and much more. 🎙️ Dig in and enjoy this conversation. 🎶 Get the album:https://jcsanford.bandcamp.com/album/denki For More Neon Jazz: Shows via MixCloud: https://www.mixcloud.com/neonjazzkc/Subscribe via Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/user/neonjazzkcSubscribe 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:                   https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=ER Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series. In this episode, we sit down with award-winning New York–based jazz vocalist Celia Berk for a deep dive into her ambitious 2025 recording project Four Seasons of Song—a series of EPs inspired by each of the four seasons, blending emotional nuance, storytelling, and timeless jazz elegance. Celia Berk is widely celebrated for her distinctive interpretations of the Great American Songbook and her gift for uncovering hidden gems by master songwriters. Though her jazz career began later in life, her artistic journey is anything but conventional. Once an aspiring actress, Celia chose the structure of Corporate America, yet never stopped studying voice or nurturing her passion for music. Her artistry has drawn high praise, with Rex Reed calling her “one of the best singers I’ve heard in a long time,” and Stephen Holden of The New York Times writing, “Ms. Berk makes you feel about New York the same way a Cole Porter song makes you feel about Paris.” From prestigious New York stages to listeners around the world, Celia Berk’s voice carries elegance, intelligence, and emotional depth. We explore her music, career evolution, and the creative vision behind Four Seasons of Song. It’s a rich and inspiring conversation. 🎙️ Enjoy this interview. 🎶 Get the albums:https://celiaberk.com/four-seasons-of-song-summer For More Neon Jazz: Shows via MixCloud: https://www.mixcloud.com/neonjazzkc/Subscribe via Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/user/neonjazzkcSubscribe 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:                   https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=ER Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with Paris-based jazz bassist, composer, and bandleader Thomas Julienne, leader of Theorem of Joy. In this episode, we catch up with Thomas about the band’s third album and 2025 release, Feux, along with his life in music, the evolution of the group, and reflections on modern living. A musician driven by collaboration and curiosity, Thomas continually draws from encounters across genres and cultures to shape his sound. Known for his eclectic style and forward-looking approach, Thomas is trained in film scoring and computer-assisted music production, and he regularly composes commissioned works for image-based media. As a double bassist, he shares his experiences performing with diverse ensembles and musicians around the world, always pushing toward new artistic territory. 🎵 Get the music:https://theoremofjoy.com/ For More Neon Jazz: Shows via MixCloud: https://www.mixcloud.com/neonjazzkc/Subscribe via Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/user/neonjazzkcSubscribe 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:                   https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=ER Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series. In this episode, we talk with renowned jazz singer Jonathan Karrant about his 2025 holiday release Christmas Wish, a beautifully crafted jazz album that blends seasonal warmth with world-class musicianship. Christmas Wish features Grammy-winning jazz legend Diane Schuur, alongside an outstanding lineup including Kenny Rampton, Joe Alterman, and Houston Person. Jonathan takes us inside the creative construction of the album, from song selection and arrangements to the emotional intention behind each performance. We also explore Jonathan’s personal Christmas memories, the role of holiday music in the jazz tradition, and how this record fits into his broader artistic journey. It’s a heartfelt and illuminating conversation with one of today’s most expressive jazz vocalists. 🎙️ Enjoy this interview. 🎶 Get the album & learn more:https://www.jonathankarrant.com/ For More Neon Jazz: Shows via MixCloud: https://www.mixcloud.com/neonjazzkc/Subscribe via Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/user/neonjazzkcSubscribe 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:                   https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=ER Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series. In this episode, we sit down with producer Suzanne Waldowski and singer/pianist Champian Fulton to discuss the 2025 holiday jazz release Swinging in the Holidays—a vibrant album that brings fresh energy to seasonal music through original arrangements and today’s finest jazz voices. Suzanne Waldowski’s journey into jazz is a unique one. A lifelong fan of the American Songbook, she began by hosting intimate house concerts in her home. That passion grew into presenting more than 20 concerts a year across the country, and ultimately launching her own jazz label, Songbook Ink. Swinging in the Holidays is the label’s first release and sets the tone for its mission: honoring tradition while spotlighting the next generation of jazz artists. Joining her is Champian Fulton, widely regarded as one of the finest musicians in jazz today. The album features an impressive lineup including Anaïs Reno, Lucy Wijnands, Olivia Chindamo, Wyatt Michael, Angela Gray, Vanessa Perea, Rob Edwards, and Benny Benack III. Legendary clarinetist and tenor saxophonist Ken Peplowski also appears on the record and contributes insightful, often fascinating liner notes. We cover the origins of the album, the vision behind Songbook Ink, the creative process, and the state of jazz today. Enjoy this wide-ranging conversation. 🎶 Get the album:https://songbook-ink.com/ For More Neon Jazz: Shows via MixCloud: https://www.mixcloud.com/neonjazzkc/Subscribe via Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/user/neonjazzkcSubscribe 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:                   https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=ER Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices