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INTERVIEWS
Listen to all the interview episodes done on 30 Albums for 30 Years (1964-1994)
47- "The Real McCoy" with Steve Myerson
The Real McCoy (1967) is a landmark album by jazz pianist McCoy Tyner, marking his first solo release after leaving John Coltrane’s legendary quartet. With a stellar lineup featuring tenor saxophonist Joe Henderson, bassist Ron Carter, and drummer Elvin Jones, the album showcases Tyner's unique modal jazz style, blending African rhythmic influences and his signature wide interval voicings. The album’s compositions, all written by Tyner wrote, demonstrate his incredible range as a pianist and composer, with tracks like "Passion Dance" and "Contemplation" now regarded as jazz standards. The interplay between the musicians is dynamic, with Henderson's fluid solos, Carter's solid bass work, and Jones's explosive drumming providing a perfect backdrop for Tyner's improvisations. The album balances uptempo tracks, like "Four by Five," with slower, more meditative pieces, such as "Search for Peace," highlighting Tyner’s ability to navigate diverse moods and textures. The Real McCoy is widely praised for its deep emotional resonance and technical brilliance, solidifying McCoy Tyner as one of his generation's most influential jazz pianists.
46- Endea Owens Interview
Endea Owens is a jazz talent known for her unique bass playing, compositions, and dynamic performances. She has gained widespread recognition as a member of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert band, where her versatile bass playing has captivated a broad television audience. Her 2023 debut album, Feel Good Music, blends intricate arrangements with an accessible, feel-good vibe, appealing to casual listeners and jazz critics.
Owens' roots in Detroit and her diverse musical background inform her distinct style, which blends jazz with other genres like house music and soul. She has collaborated with major artists such as Jon Batiste and Juicy J, and her work with Batiste’s band earned her Grammy recognition.
Beyond her musical success, Owens is also committed to philanthropy. In 2020, she founded the Community Cookout project, which provides meals and connects with underprivileged communities. Looking ahead, Owens will perform new material at venues like the South Orange Performing Arts Center, continuing to push the boundaries of jazz while deepening her community impact.
Owens' roots in Detroit and her diverse musical background inform her distinct style, which blends jazz with other genres like house music and soul. She has collaborated with major artists such as Jon Batiste and Juicy J, and her work with Batiste’s band earned her Grammy recognition.
Beyond her musical success, Owens is also committed to philanthropy. In 2020, she founded the Community Cookout project, which provides meals and connects with underprivileged communities. Looking ahead, Owens will perform new material at venues like the South Orange Performing Arts Center, continuing to push the boundaries of jazz while deepening her community impact.
45- Mark Blake on Pink Floyd "Pipers at the Gate of Dawn"
(S4 Ep15) Pink Floyd-Pipers at The Gates of Dawn with guest Mark Blake
Released August 4, 1967, Recorded February 21-May 2, 1967 (EMI)
Piper at the Gates of Dawn (1967) is Pink Floyd’s debut album, largely shaped by Syd Barrett's visionary, whimsical songwriting and experimental approach to psychedelia. Combining surreal lyrics with complex musical arrangements, the album became a defining work of the British psychedelic scene. Tracks like "Astronomy Domine" and "Interstellar Overdrive" showcase the band’s innovative use of studio effects and improvisation. At the same time, songs such as "Lucifer Sam" and "Matilda Mother" blend folk influences with dreamy, eccentric storytelling. The album's experimental nature and Barrett's increasing mental instability, worsened by heavy drug use, marked the band’s transition from a psychedelic force to something more expansive. Despite its initial mixed reception, Piper is now a cornerstone of rock history. It reveals the early creativity of a band destined for greatness but also foreshadows the tragic unraveling of Barrett's role, paving the way for Pink Floyd's future with David Gilmour.
Released August 4, 1967, Recorded February 21-May 2, 1967 (EMI)
Piper at the Gates of Dawn (1967) is Pink Floyd’s debut album, largely shaped by Syd Barrett's visionary, whimsical songwriting and experimental approach to psychedelia. Combining surreal lyrics with complex musical arrangements, the album became a defining work of the British psychedelic scene. Tracks like "Astronomy Domine" and "Interstellar Overdrive" showcase the band’s innovative use of studio effects and improvisation. At the same time, songs such as "Lucifer Sam" and "Matilda Mother" blend folk influences with dreamy, eccentric storytelling. The album's experimental nature and Barrett's increasing mental instability, worsened by heavy drug use, marked the band’s transition from a psychedelic force to something more expansive. Despite its initial mixed reception, Piper is now a cornerstone of rock history. It reveals the early creativity of a band destined for greatness but also foreshadows the tragic unraveling of Barrett's role, paving the way for Pink Floyd's future with David Gilmour.
44- Rob Bowman on Otis Redding "Live in Europe"
(S4-Ep.13) Otis Redding -Live In Europe with guest Rob Bowman
Released July 10, 1967 and Recorded March 1967 and Volt/Atco (Stax)
Otis Redding's Live in Europe is a landmark live album that captures the soul legend at the peak of his powers. Recorded during his 1967 European tour, the album showcases Redding's incredible stage presence and raw emotional depth, bringing a vibrant energy to the tracks. The album features classic songs like "Try a Little Tenderness" and "I Can't Turn You Loose," with Redding's dynamic vocals and impassioned delivery shining through. The European audience provided a perfect backdrop for Redding's electrifying performance, emphasizing his ability to connect with listeners worldwide. The album also highlights his impeccable backing band, Booker T and M.G.’s, who play with precision and soul. Live in Europe became one of Redding's most cherished records, offering fans a glimpse into his legendary live shows and solidifying his place as one of the greatest soul performers ever.
Released July 10, 1967 and Recorded March 1967 and Volt/Atco (Stax)
Otis Redding's Live in Europe is a landmark live album that captures the soul legend at the peak of his powers. Recorded during his 1967 European tour, the album showcases Redding's incredible stage presence and raw emotional depth, bringing a vibrant energy to the tracks. The album features classic songs like "Try a Little Tenderness" and "I Can't Turn You Loose," with Redding's dynamic vocals and impassioned delivery shining through. The European audience provided a perfect backdrop for Redding's electrifying performance, emphasizing his ability to connect with listeners worldwide. The album also highlights his impeccable backing band, Booker T and M.G.’s, who play with precision and soul. Live in Europe became one of Redding's most cherished records, offering fans a glimpse into his legendary live shows and solidifying his place as one of the greatest soul performers ever.
43- Stax Records with Rob Bowman
Stax Records and Special Guest Rob Bowman
Stax Records, founded in 1957 by Jim Stewart and Estelle Axton in Memphis, Tennessee, played a pivotal role in developing soul and R&B music. Originally called Satellite Records, it was rebranded in 1961, merging the founders’ last names. Known for its deep, emotive sound, Stax produced timeless hits through iconic artists like Otis Redding, Isaac Hayes, Booker T. & the MG’s, and Sam & Dave. The label's house band, Booker T. & the MG's, contributed immensely to its distinctive grooves. Stax also stood out for its progressive integration of black and white artists and staff, which was rare. After a split with Atlantic Records in 1968 and financial troubles, Stax ceased operations in 1975. Despite its short lifespan, Stax's influence endures.
Rob Bowman, a renowned Stax historian, continues to highlight its enduring legacy in shaping soul, R&B, and pop music history. Rob Bowman's book Soulsville, U.S.A.The Story of Stax Records offers an in-depth look at the label's history, detailing its origins, rise, and eventual decline. The book also provides comprehensive biographies of the promoters, producers, and performers who contributed to the label's legacy. In addition to the book, there's an HBO Original four-part documentary series titled STAX: SOULSVILLE U.S.A. -the series delves into the rich history of Stax Records. It premiered on May 20, 2024, and is available for streaming on HBO Max.
Stax Records, founded in 1957 by Jim Stewart and Estelle Axton in Memphis, Tennessee, played a pivotal role in developing soul and R&B music. Originally called Satellite Records, it was rebranded in 1961, merging the founders’ last names. Known for its deep, emotive sound, Stax produced timeless hits through iconic artists like Otis Redding, Isaac Hayes, Booker T. & the MG’s, and Sam & Dave. The label's house band, Booker T. & the MG's, contributed immensely to its distinctive grooves. Stax also stood out for its progressive integration of black and white artists and staff, which was rare. After a split with Atlantic Records in 1968 and financial troubles, Stax ceased operations in 1975. Despite its short lifespan, Stax's influence endures.
Rob Bowman, a renowned Stax historian, continues to highlight its enduring legacy in shaping soul, R&B, and pop music history. Rob Bowman's book Soulsville, U.S.A.The Story of Stax Records offers an in-depth look at the label's history, detailing its origins, rise, and eventual decline. The book also provides comprehensive biographies of the promoters, producers, and performers who contributed to the label's legacy. In addition to the book, there's an HBO Original four-part documentary series titled STAX: SOULSVILLE U.S.A. -the series delves into the rich history of Stax Records. It premiered on May 20, 2024, and is available for streaming on HBO Max.
42- Tal Yahalom Interview
Tal Yahalom, a Brooklyn-based jazz guitarist and composer, is set to release his highly anticipated ensemble-focused album Mirror Image on March 21, 2025, following the singles Hymn for Tomorrow (Feb. 24) and Tri-Tonal (March 10). Known for his intricate compositions and virtuosity, Yahalom brings together a stellar group of musicians, including David Leon (alto saxophone and flute), Ledah Finck (violin), Irene Han (cello), and Rogerio Boccato (percussion), to create a blend of chamber music and jazz that defies traditional boundaries. For more on Mirror Image, check out its official release on Bandcamp, and catch Yahalom live at the album release show on April 10 at Jazz Gallery, NYC.
https://www.talyahalom.com/
https://www.talyahalom.com/
41- Steve Bryant Interview
Steve Bryant is a fantastic jazz guitarist who lives and works near the New Jersey shore. His band, RED 123, showcases his masterful compositions and dynamic guitar playing. But beyond performing, Steve is also a dedicated educator, sharing his deep musical knowledge with the next generation. His journey began on French horn before discovering guitar in middle school—a passion that soon became an obsession. Jazz lessons with Vinny Corrao refined his technique, leading to six years in the Navy band. Then came rock and roll—tours, hotel rooms, and thousands of hours of dedication. All of these experiences—discipline, artistry, and life itself—have shaped Steve into the polished musician he is today. His music tells that story, blending skill with soul. Listen to RED 123's latest recordingNew Town, and you’ll hear his mastery and journey.
https://red123music.com/home
New Town: https://open.spotify.com/album/2nalE8WWE2xOjVk4hyihkP?si=T3lirZy-QH220-LGWaz6IA
https://red123music.com/home
New Town: https://open.spotify.com/album/2nalE8WWE2xOjVk4hyihkP?si=T3lirZy-QH220-LGWaz6IA
40- Dave Stryker Interview
Dave Stryker is a renowned American jazz guitarist with over 25 albums as a leader and collaborations with jazz greats like Stanley Turrentine, Jack McDuff, and Kevin Mahogany. Raised in Omaha, Nebraska, Stryker began playing guitar at ten, initially inspired by The Beatles and later drawn to jazz . By 17, he was performing jazz locally.
After moving to Los Angeles in 1978 and then began working with Jack McDuff, touring with him in 1984–1985. Stryker spent a decade with saxophonist Stanley Turrentine and formed bands with Steve Slagle and Jared Gold. He also worked extensively with singer Kevin Mahogany as a sideman and arranger, performing at Carnegie Hall and internationally. An experienced educator, Stryker has taught at Indiana University, Montclair State, William Paterson University, and Rutgers University, as well as online via ArtistWorks.
For More On Dave Stryker go to: https://www.davestryker.com/
After moving to Los Angeles in 1978 and then began working with Jack McDuff, touring with him in 1984–1985. Stryker spent a decade with saxophonist Stanley Turrentine and formed bands with Steve Slagle and Jared Gold. He also worked extensively with singer Kevin Mahogany as a sideman and arranger, performing at Carnegie Hall and internationally. An experienced educator, Stryker has taught at Indiana University, Montclair State, William Paterson University, and Rutgers University, as well as online via ArtistWorks.
For More On Dave Stryker go to: https://www.davestryker.com/
39- Donald Vega Interview
Donald Vega, a celebrated jazz pianist and composer from Nicaragua, continues to captivate audiences with his musical brilliance. His latest album, As I Travel, has garnered a Grammy nomination for Best Latin Jazz Album, showcasing his original compositions. Vega’s meticulous approach shines through, blending intricate grooves with masterful arrangements that offer structure and creative freedom to his ensemble, featuring John Patitucci, Lewis Nash, and Luisito Quintero. In addition, Vega recently released All Is Merry and Bright, a festive Christmas album recorded with Clovis Nicolas and Pete Van Nostrand. This project, born from spontaneity and inspired by jazz greats, highlights Vega’s ability to reimagine timeless classics with fresh, vibrant interpretations.
38- Naomi Moon Siegel Interview
Naomi Moon Siegel is an award-winning trombonist, improviser, composer, and educator committed to creating a positive, transformative music culture beyond conventional genre norms. Her original musical vocabulary draws on the richness of various global musical traditions.
Siegel explores the trombone as a vehicle for sonic expression colored by breath, spit, and physicality. A longtime collaborator with Wayne Horvitz, Siegel has performed with such luminaries as Jessica Lurie, Matthew Golombisky, Carmen Staaf, March Fourth Marching Band, Allison Miller, Julian Priester, The California Honeydrops, Martha Scanlan, Stuart Dempster, Skerik, and Thione Diop. With saxophonist Kate Olson, Siegel formed the folk punk jazz duo Syrinx Effect, which has released four albums and performed around the United States.
Siegel is a recipient of Chamber Music America’s Performance Plus Grant, Jazz Journalists Association’s Jazz Hero Award, Montana Art Council’s Artist Innovation Award, and Earshot Jazz’s Golden Ear Award for Emerging Artist of the Year. .
Siegel is an adjunct professor of trombone at the University of Montana and a dedicated music educator. Siegel is also a staunch advocate for intersectional gender justice in jazz and music settings, leading workshops to build awareness and work towards positive systemic shifts in our music culture.
Siegel explores the trombone as a vehicle for sonic expression colored by breath, spit, and physicality. A longtime collaborator with Wayne Horvitz, Siegel has performed with such luminaries as Jessica Lurie, Matthew Golombisky, Carmen Staaf, March Fourth Marching Band, Allison Miller, Julian Priester, The California Honeydrops, Martha Scanlan, Stuart Dempster, Skerik, and Thione Diop. With saxophonist Kate Olson, Siegel formed the folk punk jazz duo Syrinx Effect, which has released four albums and performed around the United States.
Siegel is a recipient of Chamber Music America’s Performance Plus Grant, Jazz Journalists Association’s Jazz Hero Award, Montana Art Council’s Artist Innovation Award, and Earshot Jazz’s Golden Ear Award for Emerging Artist of the Year. .
Siegel is an adjunct professor of trombone at the University of Montana and a dedicated music educator. Siegel is also a staunch advocate for intersectional gender justice in jazz and music settings, leading workshops to build awareness and work towards positive systemic shifts in our music culture.
37- Warren Wolf Interview
Warren Wolf’s History of the Vibraphone pays tribute to 11 legendary vibe players, including Lionel Hampton, Gary Burton, and Dave Samuels, presenting a deep dive into the vibraphone’s jazz legacy. Starting in classical music under his vibraphonist father’s guidance, Wolf trained on vibraphone, marimba, xylophone, drums, and piano from a young age in Baltimore. Influenced by his dad’s extensive jazz record collection and the local organ trio jazz scene, he eventually studied under Dave Samuels at Berklee, where he later taught. Wolf’s rich blend of early classical rigor and exposure to jazz and R&B shaped his style, which now spans swing to fusion.
In History of the Vibraphone, Wolf performs each track as an homage to original artists, joined by saxophonist Tim Green, pianist Alex Brown, bassist Vicente Archer, and drummer Carroll “CV” Dashiell III. Standout selections like Gary Burton's “Captain Señor Mouse” and Samuels’s “Spring High” reflect Wolf’s influences and his mission to celebrate lesser-known vibes players. Currently a professor at Peabody Conservatory, Wolf remains dedicated to jazz education. Baltimore’s thriving scene is central to his work, with venues like Keystone Korner and An Die Musik hosting vibrant jam sessions. Wolf's upcoming tour hints at a possible sequel to this record, potentially honoring Red Norvo, Tito Puente, and Mike Mainieri. https://njjs.org/
https://www.warrenwolf.com/
History of the Vibraphone https://open.spotify.com/album/0raNJZzMHYyOr9R398NJ3E?si=CkIRJL2-Rm2iFwruCESL-Q
In History of the Vibraphone, Wolf performs each track as an homage to original artists, joined by saxophonist Tim Green, pianist Alex Brown, bassist Vicente Archer, and drummer Carroll “CV” Dashiell III. Standout selections like Gary Burton's “Captain Señor Mouse” and Samuels’s “Spring High” reflect Wolf’s influences and his mission to celebrate lesser-known vibes players. Currently a professor at Peabody Conservatory, Wolf remains dedicated to jazz education. Baltimore’s thriving scene is central to his work, with venues like Keystone Korner and An Die Musik hosting vibrant jam sessions. Wolf's upcoming tour hints at a possible sequel to this record, potentially honoring Red Norvo, Tito Puente, and Mike Mainieri. https://njjs.org/
https://www.warrenwolf.com/
History of the Vibraphone https://open.spotify.com/album/0raNJZzMHYyOr9R398NJ3E?si=CkIRJL2-Rm2iFwruCESL-Q
36- Charlie Burnham Interview
Charlie Burnham is an accomplished American violinist, singer, and composer celebrated for his imaginative and eclectic style. Burnham traverses multiple genres, including bluegrass, folk, free jazz, blues, classical, and chamber jazz. His innovative use of the wah-wah pedal on the violin adds a distinctive flair to his performances. Burnham first gained prominence through his contributions to James "Blood" Ulmer's Odyssey album, highlighting his versatility and skill. The ensemble from that project later formed Odyssey the Band. Throughout his career, Burnham has been a pivotal member of several notable groups and artists, like Living Colour, Cassandra Wilson, String Trio of New York, 52nd Street Blues Project, Hidden City, We Free Strings, the Improvising Chamber Ensemble, and the Kropotkins. He has also recently recorded new music with Eureka Shoes, showcasing his continual evolution as a musician.
Beginning as an informal gathering of friends and now blossoming into a fully-fledged collaborative band, Eureka Shoes’ Beautalina (Adhyâropa ÂR00079) soars aloft on gorgeous 3-part harmonies, delicate acoustic textures, and world-class songcraft. Eureka Shoes features award-winning songwriter Jean Rohe, acoustic music stalwart Skye Soto Steele, and omni-genre multi-instrumentalist Charlie Burnham. Rounded out here by the virtuosic bass of Rashaan Carter, Beautalina is an enduring testament to the power of music to unite, communicate, and elevate.
Eureka Shoes Beautalina
https://open.spotify.com/album/1bH16X7J5KU6YNJgDbEVL2?si=t0YsU9C7RVehdGdwc6hpdg
Beginning as an informal gathering of friends and now blossoming into a fully-fledged collaborative band, Eureka Shoes’ Beautalina (Adhyâropa ÂR00079) soars aloft on gorgeous 3-part harmonies, delicate acoustic textures, and world-class songcraft. Eureka Shoes features award-winning songwriter Jean Rohe, acoustic music stalwart Skye Soto Steele, and omni-genre multi-instrumentalist Charlie Burnham. Rounded out here by the virtuosic bass of Rashaan Carter, Beautalina is an enduring testament to the power of music to unite, communicate, and elevate.
Eureka Shoes Beautalina
https://open.spotify.com/album/1bH16X7J5KU6YNJgDbEVL2?si=t0YsU9C7RVehdGdwc6hpdg
35- Kurt Rosenwinkel Interview
Kurt Rosenwinkel, a Philadelphia-born jazz guitarist, is renowned for blending genres and using guitar effects innovatively in jazz. His latest release, The Next Step Band (Live at Smalls, 1996), revisits the music from his acclaimed 2001 album The Next Step and features longtime collaborators Mark Turner, Ben Street, and Jeff Ballard. In addition to his album, Rosenwinkel has published Kurt Rosenwinkel’s Ultimate Book of Compositions, which includes scores, tabs, and commentary on his extensive work. He founded his label, Heartcore, in 2016 to release Caipi and take control of his career, likening the label's creation to playing a "record company" video game. His current projects include arranging for the Jazz at Lincoln Center Big Band, collaborating with Wynton Marsalis, and recording a Brahms interpretation following the success of The Chopin Project.
34- Brian Bromberg Interview
Brian Bromberg, a virtuoso bassist, honors the legacy of Scott LaFaro with his latest album, LaFaro, and a series of live performances. LaFaro, who tragically died at 25, was a groundbreaking bassist with the Bill Evans Trio, inspiring Bromberg's tribute. Initially reluctant to take on the project due to the pressures of honoring a jazz legend, Bromberg eventually embraced it after realizing LaFaro's profound influence on his playing. Bromberg also shares personal connections to jazz greats like Stan Getz, with whom he played, and Bill Evans, a missed opportunity from his youth. His career spans collaborations with top artists and an eclectic solo catalog ranging from traditional jazz to contemporary styles. Known for his versatility on upright and electric bass, Bromberg defies genre boundaries, seeking to deliver heartfelt, high-quality musicianship in every project. His performances and music continue to celebrate innovation and jazz's rich history. https://njjs.org/magazine/
33- Vietnam Vet Mike Torres Interview
Mike Torres is a guitar student of host Jay Sweet and a Vietnam veteran (Air Force). In this discussion, Mike talks about the impact of music during the war and the songs that meant the most to him.
Mike's List of Songs:
1. Sky Pilot The Animals
2. After the Gold Rush. Neil Young
3. Longer Boats. Cat Stevens (In memory of my good friend Tom Pat Widmer
RIP)
4. Miles From Nowhere. Cat Stevens
5 Pride of Man. Quicksilver Messenger Service
6 Stairway to Heaven. Led Zeppelin
7. Easy Livin. Uriah Heep
8. Any Eagles or Pink Floyd
9. Money. Pink Floyd
10. Smoke on The Water -Deep Purple
11. We're an American Band. Grand Funk Railroad
12. As Long as I Can See The Light. CCR
13. Free Bird. Lynyrd Skynard
14. Radar Love. Golden Earring. (This was our shop's standard)
15. My Woman From Tokyo. Deep Purple
Mike's List of Songs:
1. Sky Pilot The Animals
2. After the Gold Rush. Neil Young
3. Longer Boats. Cat Stevens (In memory of my good friend Tom Pat Widmer
RIP)
4. Miles From Nowhere. Cat Stevens
5 Pride of Man. Quicksilver Messenger Service
6 Stairway to Heaven. Led Zeppelin
7. Easy Livin. Uriah Heep
8. Any Eagles or Pink Floyd
9. Money. Pink Floyd
10. Smoke on The Water -Deep Purple
11. We're an American Band. Grand Funk Railroad
12. As Long as I Can See The Light. CCR
13. Free Bird. Lynyrd Skynard
14. Radar Love. Golden Earring. (This was our shop's standard)
15. My Woman From Tokyo. Deep Purple
32- Buster Williams Interview
Buster Williams, a legendary jazz bassist, composer, and instructor, has played on numerous records with iconic musicians like Herbie Hancock, Chet Baker, Art Blakey, and Stan Getz, among others. Known for his work as both a sideman and a bandleader, Williams continues to inspire audiences with his performances and compositions.
On September 28th, he will perform with his quartet at the Middlesex County Jazz Festival in New Brunswick. The quartet features Lenny White on drums, Steve Wilson on saxophone, and Brandon McCune on piano. The concert will showcase a repertoire primarily composed of Williams' original compositions. Interest in Williams grew after the 2019 documentary "Buster Williams: Bass to Infinity" highlighted his extensive career and personal journey. Now 82 years old, Williams remains dedicated to his craft, continually exploring the "infinite possibilities" of music. https://middlesexcountyjazzfestival.org/
https://busterwilliams.com/
On September 28th, he will perform with his quartet at the Middlesex County Jazz Festival in New Brunswick. The quartet features Lenny White on drums, Steve Wilson on saxophone, and Brandon McCune on piano. The concert will showcase a repertoire primarily composed of Williams' original compositions. Interest in Williams grew after the 2019 documentary "Buster Williams: Bass to Infinity" highlighted his extensive career and personal journey. Now 82 years old, Williams remains dedicated to his craft, continually exploring the "infinite possibilities" of music. https://middlesexcountyjazzfestival.org/
https://busterwilliams.com/
31- Alvester Garnett Interview
Alvester Garnett is a top-tier jazz drummer, celebrated for his swing, passion, and professionalism. His career began in Richmond, Virginia, where early influences included Ellis Marsalis and the jazz program at Virginia Commonwealth University. After moving to New York, Garnett quickly made a name for himself, working with legends like Betty Carter and Abbey Lincoln. He was the only drummer from the Thelonious Monk competition invited to Betty's Jazz Ahead program, which launched his career. Garnett has since collaborated with notable artists such as Pharoah Sanders, Dee Dee Bridgewater, and Benny Golson. He also became the regular drummer for violinist Regina Carter, who later became his wife.
In September, Garnett will lead his band, The Artworks Ensemble, at the Central Jersey Jazz Festival in Somerville, NJ. The performance will feature original compositions and include special guest trombonist Papo Vázquez, alongside Bruce Williams, Charlie Sigler, Brandon McCune, and Santi Debriano. This performance highlights Garnett’s ongoing commitment to jazz and his ability to blend leadership with collaboration.
Alvester Garnett will lead his band, The Artworks Ensemble, at the Central Jersey Jazz Festival on September 15th in Somerville, NJ. The performance will feature original compositions and include special guest trombonist Papo Vázquez, alongside Bruce Williams, Charlie Sigler, Brandon McCune, and Santi Debriano.
https://centraljerseyjazzfestival.com/
In September, Garnett will lead his band, The Artworks Ensemble, at the Central Jersey Jazz Festival in Somerville, NJ. The performance will feature original compositions and include special guest trombonist Papo Vázquez, alongside Bruce Williams, Charlie Sigler, Brandon McCune, and Santi Debriano. This performance highlights Garnett’s ongoing commitment to jazz and his ability to blend leadership with collaboration.
Alvester Garnett will lead his band, The Artworks Ensemble, at the Central Jersey Jazz Festival on September 15th in Somerville, NJ. The performance will feature original compositions and include special guest trombonist Papo Vázquez, alongside Bruce Williams, Charlie Sigler, Brandon McCune, and Santi Debriano.
https://centraljerseyjazzfestival.com/
30- Mindi Abair Interview
Mindi Abair is a Grammy-nominated saxophonist and vocalist renowned for her dynamic blend of contemporary jazz, rock, and blues. Raised in a musical family, her early influences included her saxophonist father and opera-singer grandmother. After studying at Berklee College of Music, she moved to Los Angeles, where she played with high-profile acts like the Backstreet Boys and Aerosmith before launching a successful solo career. Known for her energetic performances and collaborations with artists like Booker T, Greg Allman and Joe Perry, Abair also co-runs WineandJazz.com with her husband, combining her passions for music and wine through unique events.
https://www.mindiabair.com/
https://www.mindiabair.com/
29- Don Braden Interview
Don Braden, is a distinguished jazz saxophonist, flutist, composer, and educator. A Harvard graduate, Braden quickly became a sought-after sideman in New York, playing with legends like Betty Carter and Wynton Marsalis. As a bandleader, he has released numerous acclaimed albums, such as The Fire Within and Earth Wind and Wonder. Known for his rich tone and melodic inventiveness, Braden also excels as an educator, teaching at institutions like Harvard and the New Jersey Performing Arts Center, significantly contributing to the jazz world through both performance and education.
28- James Popik Interview
Guitarist James Popik brings a unique touch and repertoire to his music. From Acoustic Jazz to electrified Fusion Jams, classical Brazilian music and American songbook masters to reworked rock anthems, James has forged a unique voice. In this conversation James discusses his newest record Sourland Symphony and much more.
27- Joe Brent and Sara Caswell Interview
Originally a duo in 2012, 9 Horses, a New York City chamber jazz group featuring mandolinist Joe Brent, violinist Sara Caswell, and bassist Andrew Ryan, has evolved into a critically acclaimed trio. Their 2015 debut album, Perfectest Herald, established their sound: Brent's original compositions intertwined with the group's improvisational fire. Known for pushing boundaries, they explore the frontiers of chamber jazz. Their latest release, Strum (2024), joins in showcasing their genre-bending experimentation and emotionally rich music.
26- Giorgi Makadze Interview
Giorgi Mikadze, a Georgian pianist and composer, blends his cultural heritage with diverse musical experiences. Born during the Soviet Union's collapse, he began playing piano at four and trained classically at Tbilisi State Conservatoire. His discovery of jazz, through a composition teacher, led him to Berklee College of Music and later the Manhattan School of Music, where he refined his jazz skills. Mikadze has collaborated with artists like Wang Leehom and Roy Hargrove, and was the first Georgian to perform at the Newport Jazz Festival. His projects often integrate Georgian folk music with jazz, showcased in albums like "VOISA" and "Georgian Microjamz." His latest album, "Face to Face (Vol.1)," recorded in Paris, received critical acclaim. Now an associate professor at Berklee, Mikadze is committed to promoting Georgian music worldwide, celebrating the freedom that jazz offers.
25- Aaron Irwin Interview
Saxophonist, multi-woodwind instrumentalist and composer Aaron Irwin is from central IL. Recognized as a “lyrical alto saxophonist and a compelling original composer” (Steve Futterman, The New Yorker), Irwin is a sought-after commodity in both the jazz and commercial worlds. His latest recording (After) will be released on Adhyâropa Records in May of 2024, featuring longtime bandmates Mike Baggetta on guitar and Jeff Hirshfield on drums. He has eight other recordings as a leader with instrumentations spanning from trio to sextet. In addition to his groups, Irwin has performed with many leading jazz voices in the New York music community including the Grammy-nominated Darcy James Argue’s Secret Society, Jamie Baum’s Septet +, Bob Sabin’s Tentet, The Mike Fahie Jazz Orchestra, the mixed wind group Weathervest, as well as pop artists Kristen Chenoweth, Rufus Wainwright, Josh Groban, Idina Menzel, and The Roots. Irwin maintains a busy schedule as a freelance musician, performing in jazz clubs, concert halls, and Broadway theatres, working with many of New York’s finest musicians and bands.
24 - Billy Mohler Interview
Billy Mohler is a Grammy-nominated bassist, producer, and songwriter who works with legends like Lady Gaga, Sia, Dolly Parton, Miley Cyrus, Katy Perry, Macy Gray, Ringo Starr, Herbie Hancock, Steven Tyler, and Smashing Pumpkins. In addition to his incredible success in pop music, he is a noted jazz musician and has released several records under his name; his most recent album release available is called Ultraviolet with saxophonist Chris Speed, trumpeter Shane Endsley, and drummer Nate Wood.
23- Chris Pinnella Interview
Chris Pinnella's musical journey is woven with experiences across diverse landscapes. His career took flight at 16 when he showcased his prodigious talent with Alphonse Stephenson and the Orchestra of St. Peter, a debut that set the stage for his future success. This early triumph was just the beginning of his musical odyssey, eventually leading him to earn a degree from Marymount Manhattan College in New York City. Post-college, his career trajectory led him to diverse platforms. He delved into off-Broadway and regional theater. Notably, he landed the role of Simeon in the musical "Simeon's Gift," a production co-authored by the legendary Julie Andrews and her daughter Emma Walton-Hamilton. His involvement in this project gave him a unique opportunity to collaborate closely with industry icons. Additionally, he toured with the famed Trans Siberian Orchestra. Over the last several years, Pinnella has led large-scale celebrated tribute shows featuring the music of Frank Sinatra and a tribute show on the music of Billy Joel.
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