Today, we're joined by saxophonist and composer Marion Meadows, a leading figure in the contemporary jazz world. He's here to discuss his latest release, Just Doing Me, his 17th studio album, which showcases original music and collaborations with artists like Chris "Big Dog" Davis and Paul Brown. In this episode, Meadows also shares stories from his musical journey, explores topics ranging from the transformative power of the arts to his lifelong fascination with science, and reflects on how his music has evolved.

This week's episode features a conversation with Jimbo Ross, once described by the great Don Ellis as the only jazz violist in captivity. Known for his collaboration with many of the greats and for leading his Bodacious fusion band, Ross recently released a new album as a bandleader under his own name. "Jazz Passion & Satin Latin" finds him harkening back to his jazz roots with an accessible playlist of standards, classics, hidden gems and originals. Aside from sharing memories from his musical journey and speaking about the new album, he also talks about the instrument he plays on the new LP -- a modified copy of a classic viola, reproduced on a 3D printer and upgraded with a 5th string to extend the upper range of the instrument.

In this episode of the JAZZIZ Podcast, we’re speaking with trumpeter, multi-instrumentalist, composer and producer Gabriel Mark Hasselbach, a top star of both contemporary and straight-ahead jazz with several excellent, award-winning recordings under his belt. He’s here to share insights about his latest album, Count Your Lucky Stars, which will be released on July 8. In our conversation, Hasselbach talks about his earliest formative musical memories and the process of crafting his distinctive sound. Turning our attention to his latest album, Hasselbach discusses the inspiration behind Count Your Lucky Stars and the aura that he sought to achieve for it. We also discuss a recent compilation of his, The Vocalists, highlighting some of his collaborations with top vocalists over the years, and much more.

Our first interview for our JAZZIZ Podcast series is with Aaron Myers, who is fast becoming one of the names to know in jazz. Based in Washington DC, Myers is known for his piano mastery and one-of-a-kind vocal range. His talents are showcased on The Pride Album, which he released in 2021, which features original compositions and arrangements of classics, and offers a fusion of his artistry and activism. The Pride Album is one of the topics covered in this conversation, as well as his musical beginnings, the message he aims to communicate with his music and some of his stories from the road. A great way to kick off the 2023 season of The JAZZIZ Podcast!

David Perrico is a classically-trained trumpeter, an award-winning conductor/composer/arranger, and one of the most in-demand musicians in Las Vegas. Regularly wowing audiences with his bands, including the acclaimed Pop Strings Orchestra, and having toured internationally with the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra and other great ensembles, Perrico recently unleashed his new creation: the 68-piece band Pop Symphonic. The orchestra is showcased on his latest release, Sidewalk, on a program of ten original compositions and orchestrations by Perrico himself. We talk about this album and more in our latest episode of The JAZZIZ Podcast.

Welcome to the JAZZIZ Podcast. This is our new series of podcast conversations, hosted by JAZZIZ Online Editor Matt Micucci and featuring some of the best artists of today’s jazz and creative music scene. Many of these artists are part of JAZZIZ Vinyl Club, our series of limited-edition color vinyl albums curated by the JAZZIZ Editors, featuring some of the most exciting jazz artists from yesterday and today that we cover in the print version of JAZZIZ, our website and these podcasts.

For trumpeter/composer Thomas Heflin, his Tennessee roots have always been a central part of his musical identity. His laid-back playing style mirrors his easy-going personality and his songs are always inviting, soulful and melodic. His latest album, Morning Star, was released earlier this year on Blue Canoe Records. It is presented as a late-night radio show, complete with station IDs and a radio DJ, and featuring vocal tracks and instrumentals that flow effortlessly from one to the next. The music on it is also inspired by things that bring him joy and hope. We talk about the album and more with Heflin on our latest JAZZIZ Podcast.

Welcome to the JAZZIZ Podcast. This is our new series of podcast conversations, hosted by JAZZIZ Online Editor Matt Micucci and featuring some of the best artists of today’s jazz and creative music scene. Many of these artists are part of JAZZIZ Vinyl Club, our series of limited-edition color vinyl albums curated by the JAZZIZ Editors, featuring some of the most exciting jazz artists from yesterday and today that we cover in the print version of JAZZIZ, our website and these podcasts.

UK-based trumpeter/keyboardist Iwan VanHetten wears many hats, including those of composer, producer, musical director and educator. Over the years, he has played and collaborated with many of the greats, from Sister Sledge to Jools Holland. Along with Rob Harris and Paul Turner, he completes the new trio TRIONIQ. Earlier this year, he released an exciting new album as a leader called Parabbean Tales, born from the concept of combining Caribbean-influenced music with contemporary jazz and funk. We talk about this exciting project and more, including some of his earliest musical memories and his belief in the narrative power of music.

Mike Miller was born into a musical family and learned to play bass before switching to the guitar as his primary instrument of choice. Since then, variety has been a keyword of his acclaimed career, whether collaborating with such greats as Chick Corea, Gino Vannelli and Boz Scaggs or leading his own fascinating projects. The latest of these is Trust, which marked his first album as a leader in many years. Featuring rich original compositions, stellar improvisations and prowess of interplay and technique, Trust also finds Miller alongside many talented artists and showcases many aspects of his creative personality.

From his upbringing on a South African farm an hour away outside of Johannesburg to his present-day life in Jerusalem, the life of Yosef Gutman Levitt (also simply known as Yosef Gutman) has been quite a journey. After attending the Berklee College of Music in the late 1990s and playing on the New York scene in the early 2000s, the bassist/composer put his career on hiatus. He taught himself to code and started a thriving business that he sold in 2018 to return to music full-time. Since then, he has been developing and exploring a unique sound, which is showcased on a set of new recordings, including his latest album, Upside Down Mountain, his first trio album as a leader.

Saxophonist Javon Jackson first gained international prominence working with legendary drummer Art Blakey as part of the latter's Jazz Messengers ensemble. In later years, he continued to collaborate with some of the greatest artists in jazz artists and established his own reputation as a trailblazing composer, performer and bandleader, as well as a renowned jazz education.

His latest album is a historic collaboration with poet/activist Nikki Giovanni, who curated a program of hymns, spirituals and gospel songs for The Gospel According to Nikki Giovanni. The album was released today, and is one of the topics of our latest JAZZIZ Podcast conversation with Jackson, along with stories from his own artistic journey, the current state of jazz education and more.

 In today's episode Carlos Santana & Michael Shrieve discuss 'Caravanserai' on its 50th anniversary.

Our latest JAZZIZ Travel podcast is a conversation with Yale Evelev, record producer and co-owner of Luaka Bop with David Byrne. The conversation covers the identity and history of the label, particularly in the context of its World Spirituality Classics series, a series of spiritual music from around the globe. The recently-released third volume in this series is a compilation of recordings by Alhaji Waziri Oshomah.

A devout Muslim and a pillar in his local community, Alhaji Waziri Oshomah makes a unique form of dance music that's fused with local folk styles, pan-Nigerian highlife and Western pop, creating a singular sound that epitomizes Afenmailand's ethos of togetherness. The seven-track featured on The Muslim Highlife of Alhaji Waziri Oshomah were recorded between the mid-1970s and the mid-1980s.

In this episode of the JAZZIZ Podcast, we speak with singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and dancer Gunhild Carling. She shares with us news and insights about her upcoming album, aptly titled Jazz Is My Lifestyle. The record is a large ensemble project compiling a program of original compositions. Beyond the new album, we find out more about Carling's journey, her love of vintage jazz and how it is integrated into her unique sound. We also discuss her prolific composing habits, her experience of traveling and taking her music all over the world, and much more.

From Frank Zappa to Elton John, jazz-rock violin pioneer Jean-Luc Ponty remains the master of his domain.

JAZZIZ Travel returns this week with a conversation with Berlin-based, Casablanca-born producer/multi-instrumentalist Saib. A self-proclaimed bedroom beatmaker, Saib's music draws inspiration from his childhood, bossa nova, Japanese anime soundtracks, jazz and old-school hip-hop. And his recently-released album, Unwind, also finds him soaking up the cosmopolitan culture of his birthplace of Casablanca, Morocco, where the African and European continents collide. The album is out now on Jakarta Records and includes collaborations with Rotterdam producer ØDYSSEE and legendary hip-hop MC, Masta Ace.

In today's episode Michael sits down with Boney James

In today's episode of JAZZIZ Not What You Think, we chat with Maro about her relationship with Quincy Jones, Jacob collier and her new album that has just been released.

For this episode of JAZZIZ Not What You Think  our guest is composer, pianist, hit maker, three time Grammy-winner, festival artistic director, radio and TV personality and now head of a new record label. Mr. Ramsey Lewis. Now 80 years old, Ramsey has recorded over 80 albums—with his first major hit jazz record back in the 1965—and in addition to his three Grammys, has received seven gold records. With all these accomplishments, Ramsey may be best known as a true gentleman to those of us in the business, as loved by so many fans, musicians and people around the world. Please enjoy a chat with the man best known for the “The In Crowd”, Ramsey Lewis.
Intro music: “Kickin’ It” by Jeff Lorber

Sound Engineering provided by: Geoffrey Fagien

Lyle Lovett on Verve? That’s right, the label that brought you Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald, Stan Getz and so many jazz legends, just released an album by singer/songwriter Lyle Lovett. Best known for “If I Had a Boat”, his latest album 12th of June is titled after the birth of his now 4 year old twins … and you’re gonna love it like Lyle. Enjoy this conversation between JAZZIZ Publisher Michael Fagien and American singer, songwriter, actor and record producer Mr. Lyle Lovett.

Better known around the world as Commander William Riker on Star Trek: The Next Generation, actor and director Jonathan Frakes is an enthusiastic – close friends might say insufferable – jazz fan and a trombonist. With a taste that gravitates more towards Roswell Rudd than Glenn Miller, Frakes has incorporated his trombone and his love for jazz into Star Trek episodes on several occasions. He’s also performed on Phish’s album Hoist on a song titled “Riker’s Mailbox” and recorded with cast member Trek-mates LeVar Burton (Geordi LaForge), Michael Dorn (Worf), and Patrick Stewart (Captain Jean-Luc Picard) in the vocal group the Sunspots (a nod to the Inkspots). In 1991, during a break from interstellar travel, he appeared on Brent Spinner’s album of American standards, Ol’ Yellow Eyes is Back. In this episode of JAZZIZ NOT WHAT YOU THINK, Jonathan Frakes sits down with Publisher Michael Fagien, talks about jazz and a lot of things you might not have known about this screen legend and sci-fi icon.

Most people wouldn’t associate Kenny Loggins with jazz. Best known for his hit songs for movies like Footloose, Caddy Shack and Top Gun, Loggins and Messina and his foray into parent-targeted children’s music, Loggins’  earlier days as a recording artists included long instrumental and improvisational passages with L&M, a few prodigious albums produced by Bob James, projects that included guitarwork from Lee Ritenour, Tommy Tedesco, Steve Khan, Eric Gale, Robben Ford, Hugh McCracken, Dean Parks and Hiram Bullock and a string of albums that featured sax solos from Michael Brecker, David Sanborn and Mark Russo, percussion by Paulinho DaCosta and Ralph McDonald, drummers Steve Gadd and Harvey Mason, bassist Nathan East and vocals by Lani Hall and Patti Austin. Connecting the dots, all four founding members of Fourplay had played on Kenny Loggins albums decades before the band coalesced and Loggins was (no pun intended) an instrumental player in the Zeitgeist of what is now called smooth jazz; casting some of today’s most credible contemporary jazz musicians predating their own solo careers. Publisher Michael Fagien sat down with the iconic singer/songwriter to discuss Loggins’ life, love, work, family and his new book that tells it all on the latest episode of JAZZIZ NOT WHAT YOU THINK.

Award-winning saxophonist and composer Kirk Whalum has been a major force in contemporary jazz for nearly two decades. In this episode of the JAZZIZ Podcast, he discusses his latest album, Epic Cool, his first studio full-length release in five years, available via Mack Avenue. The album explores a variety of moods, styles, and genres, showcasing Whalum's talent for blending diverse musical elements. During the conversation, we talked about the genesis of Epic Cool, the influences that helped shape it, as well as his collaboration with Greg Manning on this project. We also explored his musical journey, including his historic collaborations, the lessons he's learned along the way, the importance of "appreciating the moment," and his profound connection with his audience. (Photo: Evelyn Freja)

The internationally renowned Brazilian jazz master Antonio Adolfo joins us once again on the JAZZIZ Podcast to talk about his latest album, Love Cole Porter, an instrumental celebration of the legacy of the legendary Great American Songbook composer of such immortal classics as "Ev'ry Time We Say Goodbye," "I've Got You Under My Skin," "Night and Day" and many more. This album finds Adolfo blending the genius and aura of some of his most renowned compositions with the rhythms, sounds and traditions of his Brazilian heritage, with tracks performed by an octet of excellent musicians. In this podcast, Adolfo delves into the process of reimagining these timeless songs and expresses his admiration for Porter and his legacy, as well as highlighting the people he collaborated with on Love Cole Porter.

In this episode of the JAZZIZ Podcast, GRAMMY-winning guitarist Norman Brown joins us to discuss his latest album, It Hits Different. Brown shares insights into the eleven original compositions that blend jazz, funk, blues, R&B, and more. Inspired by the album’s title, we ask Brown what sets this record apart from his previous work throughout his stellar career. Additionally, we explore the contributions of those who helped bring this project to life and delve into Brown’s personal journey, including the positive influence of meditation and Tai Chi on his life. (Photo: Corey Reese/Shanachie Entertainment)

Today’s episode of the JAZZIZ Podcast features an insightful conversation with singer/songwriter John Korbel about his latest album, Falling Feels Like Flying. This diverse collection of original compositions traces its origins back to the tumultuous days of the COVID-19 lockdowns. Korbel delves into his journey in music, including his return after a long hiatus, and discusses his unique style that blends vintage elements with a contemporary edge. He also shares details about his composition, recording, and production processes, providing a comprehensive look at the creation of his latest project.

In today’s episode of the JAZZIZ Podcast, we speak with vocalist and composer Dani Assis, the winner of this year’s Ella Fitzgerald Jazz Vocal Competition. Assis discusses his music and the messages he aims to convey through his work. He also shares the story behind his single, “My Own Embrace (Blue in Green),” and insights into his upcoming album, set for release in August. Moreover, we delve into his musical journey, explore the impact of his Brazilian heritage and reminisce about his earliest musical memories.

In today's episode of the JAZZIZ Podcast, we journey to Montreal, Canada, for an engaging conversation with drummer, composer and producer Will Régnier. He offers insights into his debut album as a bandleader, Traces, which showcases his genre-blending instrumental music and adept fusion of various styles, establishing him as a new formidable presence in the music scene. Throughout our discussion, Régnier delves into the album's conceptual underpinnings, emphasizing the significance of collaboration and his affinity for intricate time signatures. Additionally, we explore Régnier's journey, details about his compositional process and find out about his early musical influences and inspirations, for a deeper understanding of the artist behind the innovative sound of Traces.

In the latest episode of the JAZZIZ Podcast, we delve into a captivating conversation with James Hudson, a highly sought-after vocalist in the vibrant UK jazz scene. Hudson offers intriguing insights into his latest musical venture, Moonray, an album that builds upon the thematic and emotional depth of his previous work, Tomorrow. With a curated selection of both familiar standards and hidden gems, Moonray delves into a spectrum of emotions, including darker and more profound themes. Throughout the discussion, Hudson shares anecdotes from the album’s creation process, reflecting on the influence of his theatrical background on his song interpretations, his reverence for the iconic crooners of yesteryears, and many other engaging topics.

In today’s episode of the JAZZIZ Podcast, we’re joined by singer/songwriter Mark Winkler, a prominent figure in the Los Angeles jazz scene with a dedicated following. With a prolific discography boasting 20 albums, Winkler shares insights into his latest release, The Rules Don’t Apply, delving into its thematic significance, both personally and artistically. This record not only demonstrates Winkler’s compositional prowess through original pieces but also features covers of songs close to his heart. Our conversation explores the essence behind the album’s title, Winkler’s passion for singing, the gratification of hearing his compositions interpreted by renowned vocalists worldwide, and more.

In this episode, we explore the music of the new Boston-based collective Ize Trio, featuring San Diego pianist Chase Morrin, Palestinian cellist Naseem Alatrash and Cyprus-born George Lernis. The group masterfully blends jazz with Middle Eastern musical traditions while championing a socially conscious mission. Their debut album, The Global Suites, features four expansive pieces, each inspired by a core social issue. Joining the conversation are Morris and Alatrash, diving into the trio's origins, how their diverse cultural backgrounds influenced their music and how they plan to evolve their sound with future projects.

Our guest on this episode of the JAZZIZ Podcast is composer, arranger and musician Doug Richards, here to talk about his latest album, Through a Sonic Prism, paying tribute to the legacy of a giant of Brazilian music, Ant​ô​nio Carlos Jobim. In this episode, we talk about Richard's connection to Jobim's music and his unique approach to arranging the carefully curated material for this project. We also delve into the genesis of Through a Sonic Prism and the challenges of working on a project of this scale in the COVID era. Aside from speaking about this record, we dive into Richards' renowned predilection for big bands and large ensembles and his history of working within this setting. Given Richards' longstanding work in the field, including as the founder of jazz studies at Virginia Commonwealth University, we also take this opportunity to reflect on the role of music education.

On this episode of the JAZZIZ Podcast, we share a conversation with trumpeter and composer Jun Iida. He’s here to share insights into his latest album, Evergreen. We take a journey through the record’s captivating melodies, rhythms and harmonies, discovering how the music was shaped by the locations that he called his home at various points in his life, as well as the influence of his Japanese heritage. We’ll also talk about some of the personal stories that have shaped some of the individual compositions, and so much more.

In this episode of the JAZZIZ Podcast, we're sitting down for a conversation with Italian-born, Seattle-based pianist, keyboardist and composer Francesco Crosara. He shares insights into his latest album, Circular Motion, where he reimagines older compositions and offers new ones in a fascinating blend of styles, genres and traditions with different trios. In this episode, we'll also be finding out more about Crosara, delving into his journey, from his early transition from classical music to jazz, discovering some of the artists who have inspired him and continue to influence him to this day, the connection he seeks to establish with his audience and much more.

Embark on a musical odyssey through the vibrant rhythms of Brazil with JAZZIZ magazine as we sit down for an exclusive interview with the legendary musicians Dave Grusin and Lee Ritenour. Join us on this podcast episode as we delve into their lifelong love affair with Brazilian music and the remarkable journey that led to their latest collaborative work, Brasil(Candid). In this intimate conversation, Grusin and Ritenour reminisce about their early days, sharing anecdotes of their mutual fascination with Brazilian music. From their groundbreaking work with Sérgio Mendes to their transformative experiences recording in Rio de Janeiro, the duo offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the genesis of their musical partnership and the genesis of their seminal album Harlequin. Learn how their latest venture, Brasil, rekindles the magic of their collaboration, with Ritenour’s virtuosic guitar weaving seamlessly alongside Grusin’s lush arrangements and signature piano performances. With guest appearances from iconic Brazilian artists like Ivan Lins, Brasil is not just an album—it’s a celebration of friendship, creativity, and the universal language of music. Tune in as Grusin and Ritenour offer a glimpse into the heart and soul of their musical journey.

Dive into the rhythm and soul of music with Jazziz magazine as we bring you an exclusive interview with the extraordinary musician Scott Mayo. In this special podcast episode, we sit down with Mayo, renowned for his unparalleled talent as a saxophonist, composer, and producer.

Join us as we explore Mayo's journey through the world of music, from his early influences to his current creative endeavors. Discover the inspirations behind his captivating compositions and the stories behind his most memorable performances.

With insights from Jazziz magazine's editorial team, this podcast offers a unique behind-the-scenes look at Mayo's artistry, providing listeners with an intimate glimpse into the mind of a musical genius. Whether you're a die-hard jazz enthusiast or simply a lover of good music, this conversation promises to inspire and entertain.

For this latest episode of a JAZZIZ Podcast, we’re traveling to Berlin, Germany, to speak with drummer, composer and producer Janek van Laak. He’s here to share insights into his debut album as a bandleader, Circle of Madness. Van Laak has described this record via an official statement as “a snapshot of something at some point,” and encouraging a positive exploration of music, traditions, styles and sounds. In this episode, we also find out more about Van Laak’s personality and journey, the genesis of this debut statement as a bandleader and some of his inspirations, as well as his emphasis on collaboration and spontaneity in his creative endeavors.

Today, we welcome to the JAZZIZ Podcast Lizz Wright, one of the most acclaimed vocalists on the scene today. In this conversation, she shares insights on her new album, Shadow, and some of the personal stories and experiences that have inspired this invigorating new collection of her own compositions and takes on beloved classics. This is a special record because it marks her studio debut album on her label, Blues & Greens, which we also discuss in this podcast. In addition to talking about some of the people who have helped Wright create Shadow, we delve into some of her earliest memories in music and talk about her journey in music.

On this week's episode of the JAZZIZ Podcast, we're speaking with Phil Sargent, a guitarist and composer renowned in the vibrant music scenes of Boston and New York. Join us as we dive into the depths of his first new album in over a decade, Sons, a profound reflection on fatherhood and its transformative power. In our conversation, we uncover the driving concept behind this album and the stories that are woven into its tracks. We also talk about how this album represents Sargent's eclecticism and you'll love to hear some of the stories he shares from his journey in music.

Today we're speaking with London-based guitarist and composer Billy Marrows. Join us as we explore the profound journey behind his debut album. Penelope features his new chamber jazz ensemble, Grande Familia, and was released in loving memory of his mother. Proceeds from the album are going to World Child Cancer, a charity helping to beat cancer in countries most in need. In this episode, we also find out more about Marrows, his influences, ambitions and the transformative path that led him to this remarkable musical milestone.

Joining us today on the JAZZIZ Podcast, all the way from New Zealand, is pianist and composer Darren Pickering, to talk about his recently-released Volume Two of his Small Worlds project. The album is described as a continuation of his investigation of the intersection between cinematic aesthetics and electronic textures within the framework of contemporary jazz. In this podcast, we not only talk about the genesis of Pickering's Small Worlds project but also delve into his artistic evolution, tracing his early days as a self-proclaimed synthesizer enthusiast to a proponent of jazz and creative music that you need to know about.

On our latest episode of the JAZZIZ Podcast, we're thrilled to introduce you to BPM, a new trio featuring contemporary jazz heavyweights, bassist Brian Bromberg, guitarist Paul Brown and saxophonist Michael Paulo. They're joining for the first time as a unit on their captivating new album, Seriously, available through Shanachie Entertainment. The vision behind this trio is both ingenious and straightforward, leveraging individual strengths and collective chemistry while maintaining a creative process that balances professional musicianship with a light, drama-free atmosphere. In this podcast conversation, we'll dive into their process and discover the joy of BPM and what makes this collaboration so special.

Our guest today is multi-talented vocalist, pianist, composer and author Cliff Beach, sharing insights on his latest album. You Showed Me the Way finds him bringing his unique blend of jazz, funk and soul to the Ella Fitzgerald repertoire, the Great American Songbook and other classics. In this podcast conversation, Beach shares with us his love and admiration for the First Lady of Song and his thoughts on what it is that makes the Great American Songbook such a universally revered and timeless canon. We also delve inito his journey in music and the characteristic traits of his distinctive sound and personal approach to musical interpretation.

In this episode of the JAZZIZ Podcast, we are joined by all three members of PSA, the Boston-based trio comprising guitarist Pritesh Walia, keyboardist Sharik Hasan and drummer Avery Logan. Drawing inspiration from their shared love for music and jazz, this talented trio has assembled their distinct backgrounds and their self-titled debut album is a bold reimagining of the organ trio and a heartfelt tribute to its origins. Throughout our discussion, we’ll delve into their artistic journey and how they came together, exploring the depth of their musical vision and the myriad of influences that have fueled their creative fire.

In this episode of the JAZZIZ Podcast, we embark on a journey to the Philippines to connect with Bobby Velasco, a versatile keyboardist and composer renowned for his role as collaborator and musical director for many Filipino hit-makers. Velasco's musical prowess extends across various bands and genres, spanning pop, jazz, Latin, funk and more. Amidst the pandemic and his recent collaboration with evosound, Velasco has emerged as a solo artist, steadily releasing singles that reflect his eclectic tastes and influence. Our conversation delves into Velasco's musical journey, exploring pivotal moments in his career and how the pandemic served as a catalyst for his venture into original music production.

In today's episode of the JAZZIZ Podcast, we're joined by the esteemed vocalist Ryan DeHues. Our conversation delves into his latest musical release, Private Parlour, a collaborative effort with the French duo Double Francoise. This album has been resonating across the airwaves worldwide, captivating audiences with its rich fusion of bossa nova, jazz, pop, electro, lounge and the French chanson tradition.

DeHeus provides intriguing insights into the project, discussing the atmospheric influence of the recording locations and his first foray into lyric writing, as showcased within the record's program and its original compositions. Beyond exploring Private Parlour, we delve into DeHues' personal journey and artistic development, including his profound admiration for influential figures like the legendary Pat Boone, whose impact helped shape his early career, and his profound passion for music in all its forms.

Our special guest today is Brazilian-born pianist, keyboardist and composer Adolfo Mendonça, as we dive deep into the musical tapestry of his first album, Brazilian Childhood, a collection of resounding originals and covers that embody an ambitious and visionary concept. He also shares insights into his collaborations with special guests and musicians from five continents, its unique blend of jazz, improvisation, electronic instruments and the rich influence of Brazilian music, American jazz and rock. Beyond the new album, we explore the mind of the artist himself and, since he currently serves as the Director of Jazz Studies at the University of Minnesota Morris, we tap into his thoughts on the role of music and jazz education in the year 2024.

Multi-platinum-selling singer/songwriter Ann Hampton Callaway has penned around 250 songs throughout her stellar career, including hits for seven of Barbra Streisand's recordings and the iconic theme song for the hit television show, The Nanny. Her compositions have also been performed by such artists as Liza Minnelli, Michael Feinstein and Carole King, and The Cole Porter Estate officially recognizes her as the only composer to have collaborated with Cole Porter, having set her music to his posthumously discovered lyric, "I Gaze in Your Eyes." Therefore, it is a little surprising to find that her latest album, Finding Beauty - Originals, Volume 1, is her first recording of all-original material, an all-star affair uniting her with such esteemed guests as Kurt Elling, Tierney Sutton, Melissa Manchester and more. In this JAZZIZ Podcast conversation, we speak with the artist about what she has defined as her "most personal project" via an official press release, and what she described in our interview as fulfilling a longstanding ambition.

In today's episode of the JAZZIZ Podcast, we dive into the enchanting world of acclaimed bassist and composer Brian Bromberg. He talks with us about his latest album, The Magic of Moonlight, released on Mack Avenue in 2023. Transporting listeners to a realm of romance and mystery beneath the full moon, the album also boasts stellar guest contributions from notable artists. Join us as Bromberg not only delves into the musical nuances of this project and shares profound insights into his musical journey, from his beginnings as a drummer before switching to his beloved bass, to his early recordings and how he managed to remain productive and creative during the challenging days and months of the pandemic lockdowns.

Today, we bring you a conversation with Josh Nelson, the acclaimed pianist and composer, and one of the most sought-after bandleaders on the West Coast with seven critically-acclaimed recordings under his name. Join us as Nelson delves into the captivating tales that inspired his latest live album, LA Stories: Live at Sam First, a remarkable release under the newly-established Sam First Records label associated with the revered Los Angeles music venue. Beyond the new album, Nelson takes us on a journey through his musical evolution, reflecting on his formative years, his experience of collaborating with the much-missed Natalie Cole and much more.

Today's guest on the JAZZIZ Podcast is bassist Steve Millhouse, joining us to delve into his deep connection with the trio setting. In 2023, Millhouse released two trio albums. One titled The Unwinding and the other with his Cinema Trio, titled Valley of the Moon. The latter project pays homage to the timeless cinema music of the past. In our conversation, we also trace Millhouse's remarkable journey, exploring some of the influences that have sculpted his distinguished career and how the six-string bass came to play such an integral role in his music.