JAZZIZ Not What You Think

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.

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.

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 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.

In today's episode of the JAZZIZ Podcast, we're speaking with the exceptionally talented French-born pianist and composer Dimitri Landrain. Join us as we explore his latest trio recording, Astor's Place. The recording is Landrain's homage to influential artists, including Astor Piazzolla and Antonio Carlos Jobim, via original compositions and plays with a wide range of Latin styles and rhythms. Landrain shares insights into his art and delves into the significance of collaboration in his musical ventures. Our discussion also uncovers pivotal moments from his time at the Berklee College of Music in Boston and his memorable experiences as a bandleader on a cruise ship that shaped the unique path of his musical journey.

After earning a composition degree from the University of Arizona, producer and composer Eric Johnsen spent 22 years teaching high school history while pursuing his passion for music on the side. In 2018, he delved into recording the music on Liminality, a groundbreaking project blending jazz and fusion with chamber and orchestral elements, and incorporating diverse cultural influences. Join us on this episode of the JAZZIZ Podcast as Johnsen discusses his captivating journey, shedding light on the creation of Liminality. He also offers insights into his experiences and his perspective on being a music professional, as well as maintaining independence while dedicating himself to his musical pursuits.

Today, we are thrilled to have the extraordinary pianist and composer Bill Cunliffe on the JAZZIZ Podcast. He's here to delve into his captivating three-movement suite, Rainforests, recently released on record. Crafted for the Temple University Studio Orchestra, this composition draws inspiration from the life-giving mangrove trees that make up much of the tropical rainforests. Join us as we explore the expansive sonic landscape of Rainforests, a grand vision that not only embraces the full orchestral spectrum but also swings with the vigor of a big band, featuring stellar jazz soloists from the Temple Jazz Sextet. Cunliffe also shares his passion for environmental causes and his vision of how music serves as a metaphor for life. And of course, we can't resist delving into the archives of his memory, discussing his early career encounters with such legends as Mary Lou Williams and Buddy Rich.

In today's episode, we chat with Montreal-based composer, saxophonist, improviser and conductor Philippe Côté, a musical explorer at the intersection of jazz and classical music. His latest project, Confluence, is a duo collaboration with pianist François Bourassa. The work draws symbolic parallels to the powerful convergence of rivers, as reflected in the title suite's five parts. Join us in this latest episode of the JAZZIZ Podcast as Côté discusses the genesis of this collaboration and shares insights into his musical journey and inspirations.

Today we have the pleasure of chatting with Yulia Petrova, also simply known as Yulia. Hailing originally from Siberia, she is a talented pianist and composer currently based in Texas. Yulia recently unveiled her latest creation, Best Wishes, an album featuring entirely original compositions. The album has been making waves, winning numerous awards and capturing considerable attention. With Best Wishes, Yulia aims to share not only her music but also her uplifting message. This vibrant collection firmly establishes her as a captivating presence in the contemporary jazz scene. In our discussion, we delve into Yulia's artistic journey, exploring the genesis of her passion for jazz, the impact of her academic background and the artists who have served as sources of inspiration for her.

Today, we are joined by Bennett Paster, a keyboardist, composer and producer renowned for his creativity and versatility within the vibrant New York music scene. In this episode of the JAZZIZ Podcast, Paster provides a glimpse into his most recent project, Radiance, an album comprised entirely of his original compositions. Collaborating with Gary Wang on bass and Tony Mason on drums, the album feels like a heartfelt ode to the jazz piano trio. During our conversation, Paster delves into the genesis of the record, expressing his intention to craft subtly profound music and how the album's creation was deeply influenced by the times of the pandemic lockdowns. Paster also shares his thoughts on the significance of groove and elucidates how his music often responds to the complexities of contemporary jazz trends.

Sarah McKenzie is a pianist, vocalist and composer who has captivated audiences across the globe. She joins us today to share insights on her most recent album, Without You, a celebration of the rich Brazilian jazz songwriting tradition via covers and original compositions. The album is dedicated to Antonio Carlos Jobim and marks the continuation of McKenzie's collaboration with two luminaries, guitarist Romero Lubambo and cellist Jacques Morelenbaum, following their 2020 remote recording of "Corcovado."

On Without You, the trio is augmented by the talents of bassist Geoff Gascoyne, drummer Peter Erskine and percussionist Rogerio Boccato, plus guest appearances by Bob Sheppard on flute and soprano saxophone. In today's JAZZIZ Podcast conversation, McKenzie delves into her deep love and appreciation for the Brazilian jazz songwriting tradition and takes us on a journey back to the roots of this album, a journey that began at a memorable grand opening of The Blue Note in Rio de Janeiro in 2017.

This week, we share a conversation with rising star pianist and composer Shuteen Erdenebaatar, who hails from Mongolia and is currently based in Germany. She comes from a musical family and has a strong background in classical music, as well as a longstanding passion for jazz. They come together in her startlingly mature debut album, Rising Sun, released on the Motéma label. This quartet release not only showcases her refined pianistic voice but also her compositional prowess. In this JAZZIZ Podcast conversation, we find out more about her journey and the birth of her love of jazz. We also talk about her inspirations, her approaches to improvisation and composition, and some of her future ambitions.

Today, our guest is Janet Evra, a jazz vocalist and bassist of international stature with roots in England and currently based in St. Louis, Missouri. She's here to celebrate the enchanting allure of Paris and the rich French musical tradition through her latest album, Meet Me in Paris, which features a blend of cover songs and two original compositions. During our conversation, we delved into the inspiration behind this project and her affection for France and its iconic capital. We also talk about the talented individuals who contributed to this album's realization and Janet's own remarkable artistic journey.

Today's guest is GRAMMY-winning keyboardist, composer and bandleader Jeff Lorber, whose musical journey has been marked by unwavering passion, technical virtuosity, innovative spirit and genuine dedication, and has served as a wellspring of inspiration for countless artists over a span of more than five decades. He recently released a new album with the Jeff Lorber Fusion, showcasing new original compositions performed with a stellar ensemble on The Drop. In our conversation, we talk about the record's artistic statement, as well as the evolution of his Jeff Lorber Fusion project over the years, and we even take this opportunity to delve into his musical formation and his experience of battling Polycystic Kidney Disease.

Today, we welcome pianist, composer and arranger Randoph Noel to the JAZZIZ Podcast. Noel is also known for his past collaborations with such great artists as Abbey Lincoln and Barry Harris. Now, he offers seven original compositions on his new album, Elements and Orbits, which comes about 20 years after his debut as a leader, Hands on the Plow (2003). In this conversation, we talk about how each track on Elements and Orbits represents a different aspect of Noel's artistic personality and the diversity of jazz. We also talk about the influence of his family on his journey in music and how this record was partly born of a desire to respond and reflect on the tumultuousness of recent times.

Today, we welcome the talented pianist Adam Birnbaum to our JAZZIZ Podcast. Birnbaum is also known for his long-standing collaborations with such great artists as Al Foster and Cécile McLorin Salvant. In his latest endeavor, he delves into the world of Johann Sebastian Bach. Preludes, his latest album as a bandleader, features modern jazz trio reimaginings of selections from Bach’s The Well-Tempered Clavier, a collection of preludes and fugues in all 24 major and minor keys. This captivating album serves as the centerpiece for our conversation, as we also discuss why Birnbaum believes this to be his most personal recording to date.

On this episode of the JAZZIZ Podcast, we are delighted to be joined by the acclaimed vocalist Raquel Bitton. The artist shares insights into C’est Magnifique, her celebration of French chansons, which marks her 10th album release. The record features a captivating 24-piece ensemble and is co-produced in collaboration with Rafa Sardina. During our conversation, Raquel Bitton delves into the deeply personal aspects of this album, shedding light on the significance of lyrics and the stories within the songs that guide her selection process. We also explore how the French language can imbue a song with a unique ability to convey thoughts, feelings, emotions, and much more.

Today, we share our conversation with the globally renowned vocalist Veronica Swift. Having firmly established her presence in the modern jazz landscape, she recently released a self-titled album through Mack Avenue Records that showcases a passionate fusion of diverse musical styles and influences, encapsulating a unique vision of music that Swift aptly defines as “transgenre.” With bold and resounding musical expression, the record pays homage to legendary figures like Beethoven, Billie Holiday, Duke Ellington, Queen and many more, while skillfully and creatively bridging the realms of jazz, European classical music, Italian opera, bossa nova, rock, funk vaudeville and beyond. In our JAZZIZ Podcast conversation, we delve deep into the wellsprings of inspiration behind this visionary project. We also explore the closeness of her “transgenre” concept to an empowering message of identity, touch on the notion of the voice as a powerful instrument in its own right and much more.

Today, we welcome Quinn Sternberg, an exceptionally skilled bassist, to our JAZZIZ Podcast. His latest album, Walking on Eggshells, released earlier this year on Mind Beach, is a testament to his continued growth as a performer, bandleader and composer. This record features meticulously crafted songs that navigate the complexities of modern life through the prism of group dynamics. Sternberg's versatile talent shines, as he effortlessly switches between acoustic and electric bass, drawing inspiration from diverse influences, from his Midwest musical roots to his time and experience in New Orleans, and incorporating contemporary techniques. The result is a captivating and distinctive fusion of musical styles. During our podcast conversation, we dive deep into the intricacies of Walking on Eggshells, delving into Sternberg's sources of inspiration and the ongoing evolution of his musical journey, among other fascinating topics.

Today's episode of the JAZZIZ Podcast is a conversation with Indian-born pianist and composer Charu Suri. The artist's recently released fourth album is evocatively titled Rags & Ragas, and it's an ambitious blend of Indian ragas and New Orleans-style ragtime and jazz. Its program makes for a remarkable and unique showcase of what she has come to define as jazz raga, which she talks more about in this podcast conversation. The album also features some great musicians, including drum legend Joe Lastie, and we are joined on the podcast by one of the record's co-producers and arrangers, Brent Fischer.

Today's episode of the JAZZIZ Podcast features a conversation with trumpeter and composer Rachel Therrien. She joins us to talk about Mi Hogar, her first outing with her newly-assembled Latin Jazz Project, an expert band of musicians from all over the world. Mi Hogar translates to 'my home' in Spanish, and the album nods to the many places the Canada-born artist has lived over the years, including Cuba, where she immersed herself in the Latin jazz tradition. In this podcast conversation, Therrien talks more about the experience that helped shape the music of this record, her fascination with Latin jazz and some of her influences, and much more.

With a nearly six decades-long musical journey and a prolific career boasting over 25 albums as a bandleader, renowned pianist, composer and arranger Antonio Adolfo is a true luminary in the realm of Brazilian music. His latest album, Bossa 65: Celebrating Carlos Lyra and Roberto Menescal, marks a significant milestone in his oeuvre, as he commemorates the 65th anniversary of Bossa Nova, the iconic musical genre that originated on the sultry streets of Rio de Janeiro and remains a profound influence in the world of music to this very day. In this engaging conversation, Adolfo directs our attention to two of Bossa Nova's foremost composers, Carlos Lyra and Roberto Menescal, whose music he spotlights on this latest recording, skillfully reimagining some of their timeless compositions and enlisting the talents of a stellar ensemble of Brazilian musicians to bring his vision of their work to life. Join us as we also explore the enduring legacy of Bossa Nova, delve into the profound personal impact of Lyra and Menescal on Adolfo's career and much more.

Today, we share our conversation with Lennie Moore about his new album, Mentors. With a distinguished career as a composer, arranger and orchestrator, Moore has left an indelible mark across multiple media, including video games, commercials, film and television. His latest album, Mentors, pays tribute to the guiding lights in his artistic journey via original compositions and fulfils his dream of recording a big band sensation. Throughout our podcast conversation, we also tap into Moore's rich and award-winning work in video game scoring and harness his vast knowledge as the Technology and Applied Composition at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music to unravel the latest tech trends in music, including the ever-expanding role of Artificial Intelligence.

In this week’s episode of the JAZZIZ Podcast, we chat with iconic chanteuse and dancer Ute Lemper about her latest album, Time Traveler. Known for her 1920s Weimar repertoire interpretations, Lemper’s new work finds her embracing a more contemporary sound, blending neo-soul, jazz and alternative R&B. The album features original compositions inspired by rediscovered recordings from her archives. In this episode of our podcast series, we explore the making of Time Traveler and Lemper’s evolution as a songwriter, performer and interpreter, while also touching on key moments from her illustrious career and influential experiences.

Today, we embark on a captivating journey to Germany, as we delve into the musical odyssey of Foss Doll, led by the dynamic duo of pianist/keyboardist Thomas Bartylla and saxophonist Matthias Bartylla. Affectionately self-proclaimed as "twin cousins," they have been playing music together since they were children, and have woven an immersive world of sound. Their debut album as Foss Doll, Get It On, weaves jazz with other styles and genres, including lounge, house and pop, into what they call "lifestyle music," to uplift spirits and enrich experiences. Join us as we unravel their shared histories and harmonious journey, and explore the transformative power of their unique musical vision on the latest episode of our JAZZIZ Podcast.

Fast forward to the present day, we find Rodríguez continuing to pay homage to his roots, relentless in his quest to bridge the world of mainstream Latin music and the soulful rhythms of Latin jazz on his new album. Coral Way, released on Mack Avenue Records, is also a celebration of the vibrant mosaic of sounds of his new hometown of Miami, Florida. We find out more about it, as well as the passion, perseverance and pulsating rhythms that define Rodriguez in our latest episode of the JAZZIZ Podcast.

Joining us today is Kayla Waters, a true virtuoso of the piano, an exceptional composer and a visionary producer, who is quickly establishing herself as one of the top names in contemporary jazz today. Her recent creation, Presence, is a collection of intimate and profoundly personal originals, bridging the realms of spirituality and the natural world. Her Shanachie full-length debut is a testament to her undeniable talents and harmonious collaboration with her father, the great Kim Waters, as well as Chris “Big Dog” Davis, who produced two of the record’s ten tracks. Join us as we uncover the layers of inspiration, emotion and innovation that define Kayla Waters’ musical landscape in the latest episode of the JAZZIZ Podcast.

In this captivating episode of the JAZZIZ Podcast, saxophonist/bandleader/composer Brian McCarthy takes us on a sonic expedition into his latest opus, the nonet album AFTER|LIFE. Following the reverberating success of The Better Angels of Our Nature, which artfully reimagined the Civil War era’s melodies and stories, McCarthy’s new release reaches for celestial heights, delving into a profound cosmic exploration. On AFTER|LIFE, McCarthy expands his artistic canvas, intertwining cultural interpretations of existence beyond with the captivating allure of science. Join us as we explore the stellar ensemble that contributed to this journey and gain insight into the symbiotic collaboration between McCarthy and producer Linda Little. Unlock stories from his formative years and delve into the thoughts and inspirations that shape his compelling visions and compositions.

Joining us on the latest episode of the JAZZIZ Podcast is the talented pianist and composer from Poland, Sebastian Zawadzki. His most recent offering, Vibrations, spotlights his extraordinary musical abilities within a trio context, presenting an engaging assortment of his own original compositions that harmoniously interweave contemporary and Nordic jazz influences. During this podcast episode, Zawadzki dives into the inspiration that fueled this project and shares his affinity for the trio format. Moreover, he elaborates on his aspiration to unite the realms of jazz and classical music, recounts anecdotes from his early years, and much more.