Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with Kansas City Jazz Pianist Tim Whitmer on the 2025 CD Happy Holidays featuring guitarist Rod Fleeman. Tim and his band have been performing holiday music for decades, including a featured performance on the Kansas Public Radio holiday broadcast in December 2024. Now, they’ve recorded one of Kansas City’s most beloved holiday shows for release on CD and all streaming platforms. Guitarist extraordinaire Rod Fleeman joins the group on this project, bringing his extensive Christmas music expertise to the festivities. In this interview, we dive into Tim’s weekly gigs at The Black Dolphin, what Christmas means to him, the Kansas City holiday jazz tradition, and the joy of celebrating the season through music. There will be a CD release event at The Black Dolphin on Wednesday, December 17, from 6:30 to 9:30 pm. Enjoy this story. Get the album and more at Green Lady Lounge: greenladylounge.comStream the album on Amazon Music: music.amazon.com/artists/B0DJWK723J/tim-whitmer-good-time-quartet 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 Jazz Singer, Artist & Educator Kat Ellis. We take a deep dive into her new 2025 CD Talking to Myself, her late-in-life singing career, her artistry, her decades in education, and the creative journey that led her to today. Originally from Syracuse, NY and now based in Boulder, Colorado, Kat is a deeply curious, creative science educator whose love for swing dancing helped ignite her musical path. A Colorado Conservatory for the Jazz Arts (CCJA) trained musician, she is the featured vocalist with the Denver Jazz Orchestra and also leads both a jazz quintet and sextet. For 35 years, her work as a chemistry and earth systems science teacher has allowed her to share art, music, and scientific curiosity with thousands of students—while giving her space to pursue painting and music. It’s a story you should hear. Enjoy. Listen to the album:https://music.apple.com/gb/album/talking-to-myself/1821966938  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 Award-Winning NYC Jazz Pianist, Accordionist & Composer Ben Rosenblum on his upcoming Kansas City performance at Upcycle Piano Craft on December 2, 2025. We caught up with this standout NYC musician to talk about his trip to Kansas City for the Happy Hour concert series on Tuesday, December 2nd at Upcycle Piano Craft, 3945 Main Street in Midtown, from 4:30–7:30 p.m. He’ll be joined by JUNO-nominated Brooklyn-based vocalist Laura Anglade, a rising star whose emotional depth, storytelling clarity, and refined touch bring new life to the Great American Songbook, Broadway classics, and French repertoire. Ben Rosenblum is a versatile multi-instrumentalist and composer who has performed skillfully in more than twenty genres across twenty-five countries. He has toured worldwide with Grammy winners including Rickie Lee Jones and Catherine Russell. Together, Ben and Laura promise a stellar evening of world-class musicianship. We get into the full story. Enjoy. Free registration & reminders (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/events/4452195418438787/Upcycle Piano Craft: https://www.upcyclepianocraft.com/More Ben: https://www.benrosenblummusic.com/More Laura: https://lauraanglade.com/home 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 Writer & Musician Michael Stephans on the 2025 Bob Brookmeyer book On the Way to The Sky. He’s created a deeply eloquent and comprehensive remembrance of jazz icon Bob Brookmeyer, the Kansas City–born musical genius who passed away in 2011 just shy of his 82nd birthday. The book is part memoir, part biography, featuring essays from luminaries like Maria Schneider and Jim McNeely, along with tributes from prominent musicians, writers, and family. Despite Brookmeyer’s six decades as an influential composer, arranger, and educator, he never received the widespread recognition he deserved — and Michael seeks to explore why. With a PhD, two master’s degrees, and years of university teaching, he brings depth and insight to the story. Dig this interview. Life & Musichttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=juJF5WWmEGE&pp=ygUlIFRoZSBMaWZlIGFuZCBNdXNpYyBvZiBCb2IgQnJvb2ttZXllcg%3D%3D Get the book:https://untpress.unt.edu/catalog/stephans-on-the-way-to-the-sky/  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 Japanese-born, NYC-based Pianist & Composer Yoko Yates on the 2025 album Eternal Moments .. We dive into her second album as a leader and explore the art of performing live in these modern times. These 10 original compositions reflect the emotions and sensations she has experienced while living and working in the New York area. The pieces span a fascinating range—from outer space and a winding river to shifting seasons and even the penultimate day of a flower’s life. Yoko leads her quintet with flutist Jamie Baum and woodwind specialist Sam Sadigursky, creating a vivid and expressive musical world. It’s wonderful catching back up with her. Enjoy this interview. Get the album & more – https://yokoyates.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 with Jazz Guitarist, Composer & Storyteller Eshaan Sood .. We dig into his new 2025 CD Dream River and his evolving life in the arts. Originally from New Delhi, India, Eshaan’s music is fueled by wonder, curiosity, and a deep sensitivity to the world around him. Inspired by personal experiences, imagined tales, and the stories of others, he transforms emotions into melodies—creating music that feels like it’s speaking for every moment. His performances are crafted to take audiences on a journey, connecting hearts and spreading joy, one concert at a time. Over the years, he has performed across India, Bangladesh, Singapore, and the United States. We get into his full story. Enjoy. More Eshaan – https://www.instagram.com/eshaansoood/?hl=en 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 acclaimed NYC-based jazz vibraphonist, pianist, composer, leader & producer Mark Sherman .. We dive into his new 2025 CD Bop Contest, his former Broadway life, his global reach, and so much more. The album features a powerhouse lineup with pianist Donald Vega, bass legend Ron Carter, celebrated drummer and UMKC Director of Jazz Studies Carl Allen, and trumpeter Joe Mangarelli. Over the years, Mark has performed with icons like Kenny Barron, Peggy Lee, Wynton Marsalis, Joe Lovano, Michael Brecker, Larry Coryell and many others. These days, his music is making a big impact in China—right alongside the growing global jazz scene. Dig into this rich, wide-ranging interview. Music & More – https://www.instagram.com/msherjazz/?hl=en  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 the legendary Marilyn Maye on The Holly Jolly Follyday at The Folly on December 21, 2025 at 3:30 p.m. We caught up with this pride and joy of Kansas City as she returns home fresh off a stellar run at New York City’s iconic 54 Below, where she performed a residency honoring Johnny Carson’s 100th birthday. Marilyn Maye famously sang on The Tonight Show an astonishing 76 times, with Johnny Carson himself calling her the “Super-Singer.” In this interview, we dive into her unmatched legacy, the magic of her holiday show, and the rich history she shares with the Folly Theater. A must-see event and a wide-ranging conversation. Enjoy. Tickets & more at the Folly Theater website: https://follytheater.org/event/holly-jolly-follydays-featuring-marilyn-maye/  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 featuring jazz pianist Pamela York of the acclaimed Affinity Trio. We dive into their new 2025 release New Outlook, the trio’s origins, their long-running weekly residency, live shows, and much more. Four years into their steady gig at Milwaukee’s historic Mason Street Grill, trumpeter Eric Jacobson, bassist Clay Schaub, and Pamela York have shaped a dynamic, natural, and beautifully cohesive group aesthetic. This drumless trio has built a strong identity through consistent performing, touring, and recording. Individually, each member has collaborated with some of jazz’s most notable names, including Benny Golson, Phil Woods, Jeff Hamilton, John Clayton, Bruce Barth, Brian Lynch, Greg Tardy, and Frank Morgan. Dig their story. Get the album: https://originarts.com/recordings/recording.php?TitleID=82935 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 acclaimed NYC-based jazz alto saxophonist Ned Rothenberg. We caught up with him to talk about his new 2025 release Looms and Legends, navigating the COVID era, and his long, influential career in the world of jazz and beyond. Ned is a multi-instrumentalist who composes and performs on saxophones, clarinets, flute, and shakuhachi—the Japanese end-blown bamboo flute. For more than 30 years he has been internationally celebrated for his groundbreaking solo performances, presented in hundreds of concerts across North and South America, Europe, Japan, and Australia. He has led innovative ensembles such as Double Band, Power Lines, and Sync—his current group featuring Jerome Harris (acoustic guitar & acoustic bass guitar) and Samir Chaterjee (tabla). Since settling in New York City in 1978, Ned has remained a singular and powerful voice in improvised music. Dig this interview. Get the album: https://nedrothenberg.bandcamp.com/album/looms-legends  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 multi-talented NYC-based jazz trombonist Mark Miller. In this episode, we take a deep dive into his new 2025 release Storybook – The Music of Mark Miller, recorded with the acclaimed Birdland Big Band. Storybook marks the third recording from the New York City–based Birdland Big Band and showcases Mark’s rich musical voice. He composed or co-composed half of the album’s 10 vibrant tracks and arranged every one of them. Under the leadership of director and lead alto saxophonist David DeJesus, the band delivers a dynamic, colorful, and compelling sound that brings Mark’s vision fully to life. We explore his process, his evolution, and the world of music he continues to shape. Dig this interview. Get the album: https://marktrombone.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

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with Mexican-born, Bronx-based acclaimed jazz drummer Enrique Haneine. We dive into his new 2025 album Conceivable Directions, his survival through COVID, and the long, multifaceted journey of his jazz career. This new project carries an intriguing, evocative energy—full of mystery, abstraction, and depth. Born in Mexico City, Enrique holds four degrees, including a Master’s in Jazz Piano Performance from The Boston Conservatory and Berklee College of Music. His career spans vibrant leadership roles in both the Mexican pop scene and the New York jazz world, showcasing a rare versatility and creative force. We get into all of it. Dig. Get the album: https://enriquehaneine.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

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with Kansas City–based jazz guitarist Brian Baggett discussing his 2025 album Nothing Left to Lose: Live at Green Lady Lounge, Volume 2. The new record hits all streaming platforms on Monday, November 10, with a CD release event the following Monday, November 17, from 6–10 PM at the Green Lady Lounge. Baggett’s esteemed trio continues its evolution during their regular Monday night residency at Green Lady Lounge. The music captures the club’s unmistakable vibe—dark, romantic, sophisticated, and edged with a touch of danger. With deeply intuitive support from bassist Seth Lee and drummer Sam Platt, Baggett’s compositions live in a unique sonic space somewhere between jazz, surf rock, and exotica. In this interview, we explore his evolution in Kansas City, the inspiration behind the album, the magic of the Green Lady Lounge, and the ongoing journey of the Brian Baggett Trio. Dig in and enjoy this deep dive into one of KC’s defining modern jazz voices. Get the album: greenladylounge.com/brian-baggett-trio--nothing-left-to-lose.html 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 Acclaimed NYC Jazz Vibraphonist, Composer & Educator Ted Piltzecker. We caught up with him to discuss his new 2025 CD Peace Vibes and his long, influential career in music. Ted is known for his eclectic musical interests and his global performance history—from major jazz and percussion festivals to concerts around the world. His eight albums as a leader have been widely praised and have made a major impact in both the jazz and percussion communities. Over the years, Ted has performed with celebrated New York jazz figures such as Jack Wilkins, Rufus Reid, Lewis Nash, and Bill Charlap. We also cover his memorable time with George Shearing and how these encounters with legends helped shape his approach to playing, composing, and teaching. Enjoy this deep dive into an artist with remarkable experience, musical wisdom, and a new album full of resonance and peace. Get the album: (Origin Arts)https://originarts.com/oa2/recordings/recording.php?TitleID=22243 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 Veteran Jazz Guitarist Heather McKay. We catch up with her to talk about her long journey in music and her long-awaited debut 2025 album, Life Got in the Way. With over 25 years in the industry, Heather has performed across a wide spectrum of styles — from Latin jazz to rock, R&B to Afro-Caribbean, and even Persian music. Now, she’s finally stepped into the spotlight as a leader, guiding a dynamic sextet through a collection of expressive, original compositions that showcase her depth, versatility, and heart. We get into the making of the album, her musical evolution, and the joy of finally finding time to create something deeply personal. Enjoy this inspiring conversation. 🎸 Get the album: https://heathermckay.bandcamp.com/album/life-got-in-the-way-2🎙️ More interviews: http://www.neonjazz.blogspot.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 with veteran Philadelphia-based Jazz Drummer Tom Cohen. We talk about his brand-new 2025 album Embraccable Brazil and a life fully devoted to jazz. This marks his sixth album as a leader — a heartfelt tribute to his lifelong passion for bossa nova. Tom’s love of Brazilian music began in childhood, listening to Sergio Mendes and Brasil ’66 records his parents played. Over the years, he’s performed Brazilian and Latin jazz with a wide range of artists, blending authenticity with deep rhythmic sensitivity. Born in Newark, New Jersey, Tom started on drums in third grade, and at age ten, his mother took him to see the Dave Brubeck Quartet, where he met legendary drummer Joe Morello — a moment that changed everything. By the mid-1970s, he settled in Philadelphia and has been an essential part of the scene ever since. 🎵 Get the album: https://www.tomcohenproductions.com/copy-of-embraceable-brazil 🎙️ More interviews: http://www.neonjazz.blogspot.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 very special edition of the Neon Jazz interview series  - On this edition, we had the honor of interviewing the legendary tenor saxophonist Sonny Rollins – During a very open, raw and revealing conversation, Sonny spoke about quite a bit .. Beginning with his new live albums that have been dispersed in 3 volumes – Road Shows – and moving on into what it’s like to play live, what he learned from musicians over the years, about being famous and so much more .. Dig it, my friends ..  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 Vocalist Marisa Balistreri and Guitarist Stefan Hall from Madison, Wisconsin. We dive into their debut single from the upcoming album Curve Veloci — Italian for “Fast Curves.” The song is an upbeat twelve-bar jazz blues written by Stefan Hall, with Italian lyrics by Marisa Balistreri. A former professional opera singer, Marisa spent years in Italy and New York City refining her craft before returning home to Wisconsin. Stefan, a seasoned guitarist active since the early 1990s, has built a rich career performing solo and with groups across Jazz, Latin Jazz, Jazz Manouche, Blues, and Folk styles. Together, they bring a powerful chemistry that blends classical vocal technique, jazz sophistication, and heartfelt storytelling. We get into their creative partnership, the making of Curve Veloci, upcoming live shows, and more. Enjoy! 🎵 Get the music: https://marisabalistreri.com/home🎙️ More interviews: http://www.neonjazz.blogspot.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 with Toronto-based Jazz Pianist Anthony D'Alessandro on his 2025 album City Lights. We dive into this powerful sophomore release — a vibrant, original jazz project inspired by the many cities that have shaped Anthony’s musical journey. City Lights features an exceptional lineup including trumpeter Summer Camargo, NYC-based rising star tenor saxophonist Jacob Chung, bassist Jonathan Chapman, JUNO-winning drummer Ernesto Cervini, and vocal powerhouse Jennarie. We talk about the creative process behind the album, performing live in today’s jazz scene, and what’s ahead for Anthony’s evolving sound. It’s a great conversation with one of Canada’s most exciting modern jazz voices — dig this interview! 🎵 Get the album: https://www.anthonydalessandro.ca/citylights🎙️ More interviews: http://www.neonjazz.blogspot.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 with Jazz Bassist, Composer & Recording Engineer Mike Pope. We dive into his new 2025 album The Parts You Keep and a life well-lived in music. The album reflects on pivotal moments from his 30-year career and the deep emotional ties that connect life and art. One special highlight — Mike traveled to Atlanta to record his 85-year-old mother, an accomplished classical pianist, for the moving closing track “The Parts You Keep.” Born in Bowling Green, Ohio, Mike grew up surrounded by classical piano and jazz — with early influences like Bill Evans, Chick Corea, and Herbie Hancock. After starting on piano at 7 and later discovering bass through his brother Dave, his lifelong musical journey began. This conversation digs deep into inspiration, legacy, and the evolution of a true artist. 🎵 Get the album: https://originarts.com/recordings/recording.php?TitleID=82929🎙️ More interviews: http://www.neonjazz.blogspot.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