Bite-Size Jazz
Bite-Size Jazz
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A short podcast with a taste of new albums and new artists
Available episodes
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Nov 21, 2022
Staci Griesbach: My George Jones Songbook - Ep. 84
What do Ella Fitzgerald and Patsy Cline have in common? They were both considered the epitome of their respective styles of music. They have both influenced hundreds of other musical artists. And Staci Griesbach can knock your socks off singing either woman’s music.
Some people wouldn’t put country and jazz in the same boat. But after years of listening to both genres, Staci realized they weren’t so different after all. Not only are both styles “born in America” — they have similar emotional undercurrents. A good lyric, paired with a good melody, that moves the listener every time.
If you’re not convinced yet - just give Staci Griesbach’s latest album, My George Jones Songbook, a listen. You might become a country fan just yet. Tune in for 10 minutes to hear Staci’s take on her latest album!
Resources:
Learn more about Staci Griesbach on her _website_ or _social media_. You can find My George Jones Songbook anywhere you_ stream music_, and it’s available for purchase through_ Amazon Music_.
Stay tuned to Bite-Size Jazz in by following us on_ Facebook_,_ Instagram_,_ TikTok_, or_ Twitter_. And if you’d like to support Bite-Size Jazz and our mission to spread great stories about amazing music, you can_ buy me a coffee_ :) Thanks for listening!
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Nov 14, 2022
Rowan Flack: The Calling - EP. 83
During the pandemic lockdown, when doors were shuttered and people were cut off from one another, Rowan Flack was dreaming about wide open spaces. And writing about them in her new single, “The Calling.”
“The Calling” is a dreamy tune featuring an intimate setting of voice and piano. Rowan’s poetry-inspired lyrics are a perfect pairing for the playing of Deschanel Gordon (BBC Young Jazz Musician 2020). Together they help us break free from the constraints of everyday life and find solace in the calling of the mountains.
Tune in to get to know Rowan Flack and learn more about her follow-up EP, coming soon in 2023!
Resources:
Learn more about Rowan Flack on her _website_ or _social media_. You can find “The Calling” anywhere you _stream music_, or purchase it from _Amazon music_
Stay tuned to Bite-Size Jazz in by following us on_ Facebook_,_ Instagram_,_ TikTok_, or_ Twitter_. And if you’d like to support Bite-Size Jazz and our mission to spread great stories about amazing music, you can_ buy me a coffee_ :) Thanks for listening!
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Nov 7, 2022
Simeon Davis: Of Narratives & Nocturnes - Ep. 82
This summer, Simeon Davis released the album, Of Narratives & Nocturnes. And it’s truly all about the narrative.
If you like a good story, you’ll love Simeon’s music. His music doesn’t just tell a story — the band members are acting out the narrative, role-playing their individual themes. They’re more like thespians than musicians. In his hands, a band becomes a boat rocking across the ocean, a keyboard takes on the voice of God, and a guitar whispers the beguilings of the devil.
In this episode, we dive into two tracks from the album, “Eden” and “Pleiades” whose respective inspirations come from religion and Greek mythology. Tune in to hear how Simeon paints the canvas of these ancient worlds through instruments and voice — it just takes 10 minutes.
Resources:
Learn more about Simeon on_ his bio_ or _social media_. You can find Of Narratives & Nocturnes anywhere you_ stream music_, and it’s available for purchase through_ Amazon Music_.
Stay tuned to Bite-Size Jazz in by following us on_ Facebook_,_ Instagram_,_ TikTok_, or_ Twitter_. And if you’d like to support Bite-Size Jazz and our mission to spread great stories about amazing music, you can_ buy me a coffee_ :) Thanks for listening!
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Oct 31, 2022
Connie Han: Secrets of Inanna - Ep. 81
The goddess of love, beauty, and femininity. But also the goddess of war and ambition. A multi-faceted personality — simultaneously passionate and poised. Are we talking about Inanna, Aphrodite, Venus… Or pianist Connie Han?
Most audiences are familiar with more modern iterations of love goddesses, like Venus and Aphrodite. But Inanna’s history in Sumerian mythology surpasses her look-alikes. Her inexorable lust for power and conquest are juxtaposed with her extreme femininity (she is the goddess of fertility after all). Who says you can’t be both powerful and feminine?
This is exactly what drew Connie Han to Inanna’s story — and maybe because she saw a little of Inanna in herself. Dive into the world of Inanna through the lens of Connie’s latest album, “Secrets of Inanna.” Connie takes you on a breathtaking ride through ancient kingdoms, the underworld, and back again. Tune in for 10 minutes to find out more.
Resources:
Learn more about Connie on her _website_, _Instagram_, _Facebook_, or _Twitter_ . You can find Secrets of Inanna anywhere you_ stream music_, and it’s available for purchase through_ Amazon Music_.
Stay tuned to Bite-Size Jazz in by following us on _Facebook_,_ Instagram_, _TikTok_, or _Twitter_. And if you’d like to support Bite-Size Jazz and our mission to spread great stories about amazing music, you can _buy me a coffee_ :) Thanks for listening!
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Oct 18, 2022
Les McCann & Joe Alterman: Ep 80
Les McCann and Joe Alterman started as mentor and protege, but have become close friends over the last decade. When Joe first met Les, all he wanted to do was play like him. But Les taught Joe to do just the opposite: to embrace his own experiences and create a unique sound. Instead of trying to be a #2 Les McCann – be a #1 Joe Alterman.
You may recognize Les McCann from his album with Eddie Harris, Swiss Movement, which features tunes like “Cold Duck Time” and “Compared to What.” It’s a great recording, but he’s also got some hidden gems, like the album Invitation to Openness. It’s a completely different aesthetic. 15 band members improvising on an idea, with no “shoulds” or “have-tos.” It’s incredible - and Les McCann dives into his early experiences that shaped the music.
Tune in to hear more about Les and Joe’s friendship, music, and lessons learned. Plus, they talk about a song they co-wrote that’s featured on Joe’s latest album. Tune in for 10 minutes!
Resources:
Learn more about Joe Alterman on his website. Keep listening to Joe’s album, _The Upside of Down, _and Les’s album, _Invitation to openness_.
Stay tuned to Bite-Size Jazz in by following us on _Facebook_,_ Instagram_, _TikTok_, or _Twitter_. And if you’d like to support Bite-Size Jazz and our mission to spread great stories about amazing music, you can _buy me a coffee_ :) Thanks for listening!
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Oct 10, 2022
Joe Alterman: The Upside of Down - Ep 79
Meet Joe Alterman, the boy who wanted to play Bluegrass guitar and instead became a jazz pianist. And one hell of a jazz pianist at that.
Not only will you love Joe’s playing and original compositions - he’s got some great stories about jazz masters we all know and love. From his college days at NYU, working at the Blue Note, to his continued relationship with the great Les McCann — he passes on the lessons they shared with him. Plus, you’ll get a kick out of the story behind the title of the track “Don’t Forget to Love Yourself,” co-written with Les McCann.
Tune in to hear Joe’s story and fall in love with his music. It only takes 10 minutes!
Resources:
Learn more about Joe Alterman on _his website__, __Instagram__, __Facebook__, or __Twitter_. You can find The Upside of Down anywhere you _stream music_, and it’s available for purchase through_ __Amazon Music_.
Stay tuned to Bite-Size Jazz in by following us on _Facebook_,_ Instagram_, _TikTok_, or _Twitter_. And if you’d like to support Bite-Size Jazz and our mission to spread great stories about amazing music, you can _buy me a coffee_ :) Thanks for listening!
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Oct 3, 2022
Richard Shelton: An Englishman In Love in LA - Ep 78
As the “world’s leading dramatic interpreter of Frank Sinatra,” Richard Shelton certainly holds a unique relationship to the legend. He’s portrayed Sinatra in the critically acclaimed shows Rat Pack Confidential and Sinatra: Raw. But it doesn’t stop there: he’s got a crooning voice of his own that swings superbly through original music.
An Englishman in Love in LA holds a little something for everyone. Old favorites from Frank Sinatra are mixed with masterful new tunes by LA bassist and composer Alex Frank, and former BBC ‘Young Composer of the Year’ Alex Rudd. Whether it’s a sorrowful melody about the double-edged sword of love or a song about the courage to chase your dreams: Richard Shelton’s voice is a perfect fit.
Listen to the full episode to check out the new music from Richard Shelton. You’ll learn more about his early connection to Frank Sinatra, the stories behind the original music, and also hear about his acting career (hint: he’s been on some TV shows you might recognize). Hit play to find out!
Resources:
Learn more about Richard Shelton on his _website_, _Facebook_, _Instagram_, or _Twitter_. An Englishman in Love in LA is available anywhere you stream music. It’s also available for purchase through _Amazon Music_.
Stay tuned to Bite-Size Jazz in by following us on _Facebook_,_ Instagram_, _TikTok_, or _Twitter_. And if you’d like to support Bite-Size Jazz and our mission to spread great stories about amazing music, you can _buy me a coffee_ :) Thanks for listening!
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Sep 26, 2022
Bryan Carter: I Believe - Ep 77
Meet Bryan Carter, a drummer, singer, composer, and arranger extraordinaire. His latest album, I Believe, isn’t your typical straight-ahead jazz album. It’s a mixtape of his many musical influences, or in other words, “Black American Music through the lens of a jazz musician.”
Not only does I Believe groove the heck out of each song — it’s also a deeply personal coming of age and coming out story. But the story is subtly told through the lyrics of well-known songs. Listen closely to the words, and you’ll catch Bryan’s meaning.
Get to know Bryan Carter and the experiences that made him the musician he is today. Bryan dives into the composition process of each tune and what they mean to him. Most importantly, he opens up about his personal journey of learning to accept and love himself.
Resources:
Learn more about Bryan Carter on _his website_. You can find I Believe anywhere you _stream music_, and it’s available for purchase through_ Bryan’s website_ or through _Amazon Music_.
Stay tuned to Bite-Size Jazz in by following us on _Facebook_,_ Instagram_, _TikTok_, or _Twitter_. And if you’d like to support Bite-Size Jazz and our mission to spread great stories about amazing music, you can _buy me a coffee_ :) Thanks for listening!
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Sep 19, 2022
Roxy Coss: Disparate Parts Ep. 76
Roxy Coss is a saxophonist, Composer, Bandleader, Recording Artist, Educator and Activist (Founder and President of WIJO). Sounds busy, huh? We didn’t even mention that she recently became a new mother! Anyone with even half as busy a life could testify that it’s easy to get caught up in so many different roles. Without hardly noticing, you start to compartmentalize.
Pre-pandemic and pre-baby, Roxy Coss was feeling a separation between various parts of her life. She was working on new music, and the more it emerged, the more she realized it was a manifestation of these “Disparate Parts.” Ultimately, it became a four movement suite: “The Body,” “The Mind,” “The Heart,” and “The Spirit.”
Tune in to hear Roxy’s take on each movement and how she’s learned to accept herself and the many facets of her life. Plus, Roxy shares the personal impact of the late pianist Harold Mabern and how he inspired the song “Mabes.”
Resources:
Learn more about Roxy Coss on her _website_ or _social media_. You can find Disparate Parts anywhere you _stream music_. It’s also available for purchase through _Amazon Music_.
Stay tuned to Bite-Size Jazz in by following us on _Facebook_,_ Instagram_, _TikTok_, or _Twitter_. And if you’d like to support Bite-Size Jazz and our mission to spread great stories about amazing music, you can _buy me a coffee_ :) Thanks for listening!
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May 17, 2022
Liam Forde: Great To Be Here - Episode 75
Meet Liam Forde: a connoisseur of all things music, elegance, and food. He’s a hopeless romantic with one foot in 2022 and one foot in the world of the 1930s nightclubs. One listen to his latest album Great To Be Here and you’ll be floating back in time to old New York where grand hotels and chique elegance reign supreme.
A middle-class child from a modest home, Liam found himself drawn to the grandiose world of music by a next-door neighbor who taught him how to make tomato sauce and pie dough — love classical music. Later, he found himself entirely captivated by his sister’s CD of Ella Fitzgerald’s “The Best of the Songbook.” The sweeping melodies, chromatic harmonies, and grandiose performances captured his imagination as a young boy - and hasn’t stopped since.
In Great To Be Here, Liam sings about grandeur monuments, like the “Plaza Hotel” and “Paris When It’s Grey.” He also opens up about artists’ insecurities — and learning to love your music whether or not the audience does — in the song “I Don’t Know.” Additionally, Liam comments on finding happiness in little things during a worldwide pandemic in “When My Word’s in Tune” and “Gratitude Song.”
Get to know Liam Forde in this episode of Bite-Size Jazz! He talks about his favorite dishes, his love for France, and finding confidence in your music. He also talks about getting started in New York, his acting career, and what makes a great teacher. Take 10 minutes to check out Liam Forde’s new music!
You can also hear Liam Forde LIVE at Birdland in New York on June 13th @ 8:30 PM EST! Purchase tickets _here_ to reserve your seat today.
Resources:
Learn more about Liam Forde on his _website_, _Instagram_, or _Facebook_. You can find Great To Be Here wherever you _stream music_. It’s also available for purchase from _Amazon Music_ or _his website_.
Enjoying Bite-Size Jazz? You can support the podcast by Buying Me a Coffee! You can also leave a review, subscribe on your _favorite podcast platform__,_ or follow us on _Instagram_, _Facebook_, and _Twitter_. I’d love to connect with you!
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May 4, 2022
Natalie Cressman & Ian Faquini: Auburn Whisper - Episode 74
If you love Brazilian music, you’ll love Natalie Cressman and Ian Faquini's most recent album, Auburn Whisper.
Auburn Whisper showcases their myriad of talents. Not only are they exceptional on their individual instruments (trombone and guitar), but they are also tasteful lyricists and songwriters. Together they weave the story of disappointment, acceptance, and resilience in the face of a worldwide pandemic — all with the wonderful flavor of Brazil. Their original songs carry the longing for loved ones in another country, hope in the midst of darkness, and tales of Brazilian goddesses.
Tune in to learn more! They talk about how they met, the lyricist they teamed up with, their unique recording process, and of course, the inspiration behind their original music. Get to know Natalie Cressman, Ian Faquini, and their latest album, Auburn Whisper in less than 10 minutes in this episode of Bite-Size Jazz.
Resources
Learn more about _Natalie Cressman_ and _Ian Faquini_ on their socia…
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Apr 18, 2022
Grace Fox: Eleven O' Seven - Episode 73
At 19 years old, Grace Fox is already a force to be reckoned with.
She’s already formed her own big band, recorded her first album, and performed as a trumpeter and bandleader at one of the most respected jazz clubs in NYC, Birdland.
We don’t want to give too many details away, but in this episode of Bite-Size Jazz, Grace dives into the mishaps of recording — like when singers back out of recordings at the last minute — and the inspiration behind her original songs, including procrastinated homework assignments that later became killer big band charts. She also opens up about the struggles of starting a music degree and trying to launch a career during a worldwide pandemic. Tune in to get to know Grace Fox and her debut album, Eleven O’ Seven.
Resources:
Learn more about Grace Fox on her social media. You can stream Eleven O' Seven on Spotify or Apple Music, it's also available for purchase on Amazon Music, Bandcamp, and iTunes.
Enjoying Bite-Size Jazz? You can suppo…
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Apr 4, 2022
Vanessa Perea: It Had To Be You - Episode 72
You’ve heard of piano-vocal duos and guitar-vocal duos. But what about trombone-vocal duos?
Vanessa Perea and husband Robert Edwards are trendsetting this unique instrumentation. They first showcased it on their album Home Life in 2021, which was a purely vocal and trombone album. Now their latest album, It Had To Be You, brings that same playful interaction — and adds guitarist Tony Davis and bassist Dylan Shamat.
Vanessa and Robert first met during their undergrad years at New Jersey City University. A move across the river into New York City proved fruitful to both of their careers. Calls were coming in and their schedules stayed busy. That is, until the pandemic hit. With nothing but time to kill, Vanessa and Robert started exploring the idea of playing with what they had — a voice and a trombone — and spent hours working out arrangements (much to the chagrin of their downstairs neighbors). When social distancing restrictions were lifted, they were happy to add a few more…
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Mar 29, 2022
Melissa Errico: Out of the Dark - Episode 71
Loneliness. Heartache. Emptiness. Isolation. Everything that describes film noir also describes the pandemic.
When Melissa Errico first fell down the YouTube rabbit hole of film noir, she didn't expect to find a new passion. After watching hours of tragic femme fatale actresses fall trap to their fate and lonely heroes become disillusioned with society — she realized that the themes of the 1940s weren't so far away after all. A collaboration with the French Institue Alliance Francaise for a film festival further cemented this love for film noir, and most especially for the music these movies featured.
Out the Dark presents 17 tracks arranged with the very heart of film noir. Songs like "Laura," "On Vit, On Aime," and "Silent Partner" capture the mystery and intrigue of those classic films. "Farewell My Lovely" showcases a beautiful lyrical setting to the tune of "Marlo's Theme," originally written by David Shire for the movie Farewell My Lovely. And, Melissa gets to star in her…
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Mar 23, 2022
Anna Laura Quinn: Open the Door - Episode 70
If you’re looking for a fresh take on a familiar tune, Anna Laura Quinn has the song for you. Each recording on her debut album Open the Door is a delightful surprise. “Wouldn’t It Be Loverly” is reinvented as a bluesy, groove track. “Open the Door,” is cloaked in beautiful, ethereal sound. And “Love for Sale” gets the dark, mysterious makeover its lyrics have been waiting for. Anna Laura is a stunning vocalist, but she’s also a genius arranger.
When her visual art career didn’t provide the fulfillment she’d imagined, Anna Laura took a leap of faith — all the way to New Orleans. Step by step she’s grown into the confident band leader she is today. From a master's program at UNO, to jam sessions, to her debut album, Anna Laura has been on a journey to discover her sound — and invites you to listen on Open the Door.
Listen to this Bite-Size Jazz episode featuring Anna Laura Quinn to get to know an incredible young vocalist. She talks about her musical journe…
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Mar 14, 2022
Leonor Falcón: Imaga Mondo Vol. II - Episode 69
Leonor Falcón is no stranger to the violin or viola — she’s been studying them since her childhood placement in a Venezuelan music charter school. Every morning, she attended traditional academic classes, while her afternoons were filled with orchestra and small ensemble rehearsals. The central focus was mastering the instrument to reach the top orchestra. And though her school days were filled with classical music — her home was filled with the sounds of rock, jazz, and pop. Eventually, these genres called her to New York to study jazz and improvisation.
While in New York, Leonor discovered a love for all types of improvisation — not just jazz. She found the Avant-Garde scene and other unique sounds that defy typical genre placement. Leonor also realized that learning to improvise was almost like learning a different instrument. Rather than focusing on correct notes and rhythms, she learned to let expression lead her technique. Leonor learned to accept herself and the sounds…
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Mar 8, 2022
Spencer Day: Broadway by Day - Episode 68
“If it was on VHS I got to see it”
Spencer Day credits his mother and the local video store for igniting his love of musicals. He grew up in a small, conservative town that didn’t have much in the way of live musical theater performances. But there was a video store that carried G-rated movies — and classic films. The music from shows like Oklahoma, Singin’ in the Rain, and South Pacific planted big dreams of traveling the world inside his young heart. However, it took some time before he realized that singing would be his ticket around the globe.
Now Spencer Day is a #1 Billboard jazz/pop singer and songwriter that has played in venues like the Lincoln Center, the Hollywood Bowl and London’s West End. He’s been praised by Time Out New York, Washington Post, New York Public Radio, and SF Chronicle. But it certainly wasn’t a straight trajectory getting to this point. Between a joke audition for Star Search that actually landed him on the show, playing in piano bars, si…
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Mar 1, 2022
Jim Caruso & Billy Stritch: The Sunday Set - Episode 67
Jim Caruso and Billy Stritch’s friendship began almost 40 years ago, way before they ever set foot in New York City. Jim was living and performing in Dallas, Texas, when his manager asked if a young vocal trio from Houston could sing a few songs before one of his shows. That trio was Sharon Montgomery, Rebecca Plant, and Billy Stritch. Jim thought “Oh sure, give these kids a break.” Their performance blew everyone away, including Jim, who said “They were one of the best vocal groups I’d ever heard, I wanted to kill myself. In lieu of that, we became best friends.”
Now, Jim and Billy spend every Monday night together at the Birdland Theater in New York hosting “Jim Caruso’s Cast Party” — one of the best open mics in the city. Every week for 18 years they’ve brought people on stage to share their talents with the audience. The best part? You never know who might walk in the door
But you can’t make it to New York to hang out with Jim and Billy, you can bring them…
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Feb 15, 2022
The Baylor Project: Generations - Episode 66
“Never compare your season to someone else’s.”
Jean and Marcus Baylor have experienced many different seasons during their lives. Jean found success in the 90s as half of the duo Zhane. Marcus rose to prominence in the early 2000s as the drummer for the Yellowjackets. And now they’re in a new season of musical creation — together this time — as The Baylor Project.
Since 2017, they’ve started their own label, Be a Light, released two albums, been nominated four times for a Grammy (the latest for their album, Generations), and recently partnered with the legendary Motown Gospel label. Marcus notes that it’s a good thing you take the journey one step at a time. If you knew at the beginning what kind of work it would take to get where you are now — would you have had the bandwidth to say yes?
Whatever you’re trying to achieve, it’s all about persistence and staying consistent. It’s as true for a musical vision as it is for a marriage. Jean and Marcus Baylor have…
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Feb 2, 2022
Christiane Karam: Nar - Episode 65
Vocalist and composer Christiane Karam fuses a world of influences in her latest album, Nar. We hear western harmony, eastern melodies, Balkan rhythms, Hungarian folk tunes, and a few surprising influences like Pink Floyd and David Bowie. Christiane’s music melds these sounds together to unfold the shared experiences of humanity.
Some of those experiences are quite universal, like the heartache from a breakup. Others are shared by many around the globe, like the immigrant journey. And there are other experiences that no one would wish upon another, but still too many undergo — the tragedies brought by war and violence.
Born and raised in war-torn Beirut, Lebanon, Christiane is all too familiar with the calamities of conflict. But nothing could have prepared her for the pain inflicted by the August 2020 explosion in Beirut. It wasn’t just another newscast about a place a world away — those were Christiane’s family and friends. When the shock subsided and the tears finally fl…
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Feb 2, 2022
Deanna Witkowski: Force of Nature - Episode 64
Deanna Witkowski was first drawn to the pianist Mary Lou Williams in 2000 when she was invited to perform at the Kennedy Center for the Mary Lou Williams Festival. Of course she said yes, but she also realized that she was unfamiliar with Mary Lou’s music. That initial listening dive sparked a 20-year exploration of Mary Lou Williams' life and music, now showcased in a book, Mary Lou Williams: Music for the Soul, and an album, Force of Nature.
Force of Nature is the perfect phrase to describe Mary Lou Williams. She was not only an amazing composer and pianist in her own right — musicians like Thelonious Monk, Charlie Parker, and Dizzy Gillespie learned harmony and composition from her caring mentorship. The names of her students get thrown around in history classes more often than we hear of Mary Lou. But perhaps she deserves a bit more credit than what’s given — especially when we hear startlingly similar harmonies in the compositions of her pupils. The bridge of Monk's "Well…
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Jan 18, 2022
Nick Finzer: Out of Focus - Episode 63
Everybody has heard solo piano concerts and solo guitar gigs. But how often do you listen to solo trombone music?
After listening to Nick Finzer’s latest album Out of Focus, you'll think about listening to solo trombone more often. Whether it’s a solo arrangement of Duke Ellington’s “A Single Petal of a Rose” or a 15 trombone arrangement of “Mood Indigo” (with all parts except bass trombone played by Finzer), Out of Focus gives the trombone a whole new dimension.
But how do you write for 15 trombones anyways? Or how do you add texture to an arrangement for a single-note instrument? As jazz musicians, it’s easy to fall into a trap of cramming as much as you can into any given song. But the truth is, you probably don’t need to play 17 choruses on that ballad. Nick reminds us that sometimes stripping a song back to the original melody IS unique — and maybe it’s all you really need.
Listen to the full interview with trombonist Nick Finzer to hear his input on great…
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Jan 4, 2022
Charles Goold: Rhythm in Contrast — Episode 62
Drummer Charles Goold has been playing gigs for a long time — since he was 11, in fact. It started with sitting on his father's gigs at Small's Jazz Club. His dad, Ned Goold, is an acclaimed saxophonist, best known for playing in Harry Connick Jr.'s band. When they couldn't find a babysitter, Ned would bring Charles and his brother to the smoke-filled club to watch his gigs with the great jazz musicians of the 90s. Ned let Charles sit in on a tune here and there at first, but by the time he was 13, Charles held the drum chair for those weekly gigs.
Now he's getting ready to release his second album, Rhythm in Contrast. The general concept of the album is exactly how it sounds: music with contrasting rhythms and styles. As you listen through the full album, you’ll notice that no two tracks sound the same, with styles switching between every song — sometimes even switching during the song, like in the tune "Resisting Arrest."
"Resisting Arrest" pulls together multiple styles fo…
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Dec 30, 2021
2021 Wrap Up
THANK YOU listeners for supporting Bite-Size Jazz and these amazing artists! Thanks for joining the Bite-Size Jazz community and watching the podcast grow over these last 12 months. And THANK YOU to the wonderful artists who opened up about your lives, careers, and compositions and willingly shared your wisdom with listeners around the globe.
This week's episode shares just a few highlights from the interviews during 2021. It's not even close to capturing all the incredible interviews — but we would love for you to peruse the episodes available and see if there's anyone you missed. Find someone you're not familiar with, check out their music on Spotify or Apple Music. Or better yet, support their music by buying their album!
The highlights featured are from:
Cyrille Aimée & Michael Valeanu - Episode 40
Lucy Yeghiazaryan & Vanisha Gould - Episode 50
Ulysses Owens Jr. - Episode 36
Jeremy Pelt - Episode 44
Jazzmeia Horn - Episode 51
Find all our episodes on the Bite-Size…
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Dec 20, 2021
Olivia Van Goor: When The Shadows Fall - Episode 61
Jazz vocalist Olivia Van Goor says one of the best pieces of advice she’s ever received is, “In the beginning, no one will be asking you to do things, so you just have to do them yourself.” Previously, she was under the impression that she needed to be asked to do things like record, or maybe she would just get a lucky break. This piece of advice gave Olivia the motivation to save up money for studio time, form her own jazz group, experiment with arrangements, line up a recording engineer and a mixing and mastering engineer — and this was just the start. Working as an independent artist isn’t easy, but Olivia knows she’s earned every ounce of praise the album has received.
You hear Olivia’s original imprint most on her arrangement of “Hershey Bar.” She was inspired by Anita O’Day’s recording on the album Cool Heat — and her own sweet tooth. Musicians have a rap for vices like drugs and alcohol. But the only substance Olivia can’t get enough of is chocolate. S…
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Dec 15, 2021
Steven Feifke & Benny Benack III - Episode 60
Steven Feifke and Benny Benack III don’t have a typical arranger-singer relationship. That’s because they’re not just a typical arranger or singer — Benny also is an incredible trumpet player who writes his own lead sheets for his quartet, and Steven is an incredible pianist and composer (check out his recently released big band album, _Kinetic_). Thus, it’s not “singer who stands in front and has nothing to do with composing” and “arranger who just cranks out charts without any artist preferences.” Their album, Seasons Swinging Greetings, showcases the intertwining talents of composing, arranging, and writing lyrics.
For instance, Steven tweaked the form on Benny’s original song “My Girlfriend is an Elf.” Normally, he’s much more conservative about changing the form of someone’s song. But because he and Benny are such close friends, he wasn’t afraid to propose the change that made the orchestration line up better. When Steven was hitting a wall for the l…
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Dec 7, 2021
Todd Mosby: Aerial Views - Episode 59
Todd Mosby’s love for Indian music was born in a small shop near his home. After school he would hang out in the store, smelling the sweet incense and listening to records from great Indian artists. The chance of a lifetime came when the legendary sitarist Imrat Khan moved to Todd’s hometown of St. Louis, Missouri. What Bach’s family did to western classical music — Imrat’s family did to Indian music. They totally changed its course. Todd jumped at the opportunity to take lessons with Imrat, which led to a 13-year intense study of Classical North Indian Music. Todd describes it as a student-disciple model, learning the philosophy, history, spirituality of the music. It may have cost more than any post-graduate education — but Todd wouldn’t trade it for anything.
A few years into these lessons, Todd recognized he needed a new instrument to blend the eastern styles he was learning with the western music he’s always known. Together with Imrat Khan and luthier Kim Schwartz…
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Nov 30, 2021
Alex Hamburger: And She Spoke - Episode 58
Alex Hamburger’s latest album And She Spoke is inspired by many powerhouse women in history. But first and foremost, And She Spoke is inspired by Alex’s grandmother, a stalwart educator, and activist during the military dictatorship in Paraguay. Her grandmother built a school all by herself at the age of 20 to teach children in a poor, rural community with no other chance for education. She outright refused to teach what the dictator told her to, and when soldiers came to take away teachers, she refused again. Her grandmother started a nationwide movement for academic integrity, which became part of the general movement for social justice in the country. Talk about an incredible woman.
When Alex came across a book of poetry her grandmother had written, she knew she had to do something with it. “La Desesperación es la Pasión Verdaderamente Humana” captures the essence of her grandmother’s poetry: deep and on the edge of being dark. The poem that inspired “La Desesperació…
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Nov 23, 2021
Michael Feinberg: Hard Times - Episode 57
Bassist Michael Feinberg's latest album takes you through the wild ride of the pandemic. Waking up “Every. Damn. Day” to the horrible news cycle of police brutality and out-of-control politicians, feeling a little “Janky in the Middle” of it all, and mostly just hoping you can see the light at the end of these “Hard Times.”
But Michael’s music finds order in the chaos. Take the aforementioned tune “Every. Damn. Day. (Burn it Down Blues)” as an example. It’s forged from two seemingly unrelated themes, which build into a musical mayhem. However, the most chaotic section is also the part that feels the most constant. In between each repetition of the theme, there’s a wide range of emotions: sweet, harsh, or aggressive. But in the end, the music always returns to the same theme. There's a consistency in the disarray — just the same as we must start the day over, and over, and over again amidst the turmoil of life.
Michael explains that there is a constant duality…
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Nov 15, 2021
Freda Payne: Let There Be Love - Episode 56
Fame can be a pleasant surprise
When Freda Payne recorded “Band of Gold” for Invictus Records in 1969, she didn’t think much of it — until it catapulted her to the top of the charts in 1970. Even today, it’s still considered one of the top 100 songs of the 70s. But Freda Payne’s roots are in jazz — she recorded her very first album for Impulse! Records (known for recording jazz legends such as John Coltrane and Duke Ellington) and ever since 2014, she’s returned to those roots with her recordings. Her latest album Let There Be Love features jazz masters of today like Kurt Elling and Dee Dee Bridgewater, along with long-time legend Johnny Mathis and R&B, soul, and jazz star Kenny Lattimore.
Arrangements for Let There Be Love were crafted by Grammy Award-winning composer and bandleader Gordon Goodwin, with some suggestions from Freda Payne. When Gordon presented his original arrangement of the title track, Freda said, “This one’s going to be a duet with Kenny Lattim…
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Nov 9, 2021
Jim Snidero: Strings - Episode 55
“It was an intense record — you can hear that in the music. The musicians really had something to say that day”
The reissuing of Strings celebrates 20 years since the original recording — and memorializes 20 years since the attack on the Twin Towers, an attack that affected the recording in unprecedented ways. Saxophonist Jim Snidero was headed to the recording studio for this album on September 11, 2001. When he descended into the subway tunnels at 8:30 that morning, the twin towers were still standing. When he arrived in Brooklyn, the air was filled with smoke and floating work documents from the decimated offices. It was obvious they would have to reschedule. When they regrouped two months later, it was a somber meeting and the emotion everyone held in their hearts seeped into the music. Song titles like “Forever Gone,” “On the Banks of the Hudson,” and “The Talk of the Town,” suddenly held much different meanings than they previously anticipated.
You would nev…
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Nov 2, 2021
Miki Yamanaka: Stairway to the Stars - Episode 54
The sound of big bands brewed a love for jazz that carried Miki Yamanaka from her home in Japan all the way to New York City.
Miki Yamanaka was no stranger to jazz during her formative years — apparently, you can’t even go into a noodle shop in Japan without hearing John Coltrane. Her own parents were avid jazz fans, enrolling Miki in an after-school music program with a jazz band. That musical passion was further cemented during a five-day visit to New York where Miki Yamanaka watched Cedar Walton play at Dizzy’s Club. When the night was over, there was only one thought left in Miki’s mind: I have to live here. The level of jazz that she had only imagined was possible was played everywhere in New York. Miki packed up her bags again, saying she would stay in New York for just a year — now it’s been nine years and she has no intention of leaving anytime soon.
October 2021 saw the release of Miki’s third album as a leader, Stairway to the Stars, recorded in the midst of a…
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Oct 27, 2021
Three of a Kind - Episode 53
“In this setting, it can feel like you have to fill in the space — like filling in an awkward pause in a conversation. But actually, if you leave the space it makes the notes much more meaningful” - Clovis Nicolas
Playing without a drummer leaves a lot of extra room in your soundscape. It can seem natural to fill it up with comping, melodic fills, or rhythmic hits — but Michael Valeanu, Clovis Nicolas, and Jon Boutellier do the opposite. Rather than constantly churning out notes, the guitar-bass-saxophone trio leaves ample room for a three-way conversation on their latest album, Three of a Kind.
Inspired by the Jimmy Guiffre and Jim Hall trio, Michael opted for a drumless trio where he could better control his dynamics and textures within a group. It’s easier to hear yourself without a drummer, and Michael felt there was more he could convey to the audience in that setting. Clovis and Jon loved the unique instrumentation and jumped on board for the one-day recording session…
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Oct 19, 2021
Tom Cohen: My Take - Episode 52
“Philly’s got its own way of swing — it’s a deep-rooted, down-home feeling”
Drummer Tom Cohen must have had flames coming off his sticks when he finished recording his latest record. Short but mighty, My Take features five burning tracks with Philadelphia greats like Hammond B3 organist Dave Posmontier and guitarist Steve Warfield, tenor saxophonists Tim Warfield and Ralph Bowen, and Joey DeFrancesco, also on the Hammond B3 of course. Musicians rotate through Tom’s interpretations of five classic jazz tunes.
Tom Cohen reminisces about his early days on the Philly jazz scene, hanging out at Gert’s Lounge with jazz organ masters like Herbie Nicks and Shirley Scott. Though there was barely enough room between the stage and the bar to squeeze in two people, the music was so toe-tapping that people couldn’t help but get up and dance. Philadelphia has rightly earned its reputation as a B3 town, especially considering the players that have come out of that city: the aforem…
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Oct 14, 2021
Marc Cary: Life Lessons - Episode 51
“No matter how good you get — if you don't listen, then it’s nothing because listening is 99% of what we do”
Jazz pianist Marc Cary shares the wisdom he’s gained from years as a professional musician in his latest album Life Lessons. The first lesson he shares is that in order to truly understand jazz, you have to dig deep — real deep. The roots of this music go back farther than American history — across the ocean, and across continents even. All great musicians were influenced by the places they traveled and the sounds they heard, especially from indigenous groups. Marc opens up about his own Native American ancestry and how his music was influenced by their sound and turbulent history.
In addition to his fascination with and influence from indigenous music, Marc’s compositions are also quite lyrical, no doubt impacted by his time spent with vocalists like Betty Carter and Abbey Lincoln. Marc laughs about the time Abbey Lincoln told him it was alright if he couldn…
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Oct 5, 2021
Jazzmeia Horn: Dear Love - Episode 50
“We need to get back to love, the love that was lost”
Jazz vocalist Jazzmeia Horn’s latest album Dear Love is a love letter to her community, family, friends, and future lover. Her music spreads warmth and positivity, encouraging us to be the eye of the hurricane by finding balance and peace amidst the chaos of society.
“Can’t Buy Me Love” reminds us that all the money in the world can’t fill the gap of genuine love. The original verses she added are a perfect pairing with the Beatles’ classic tune. “Let Us Take Our Time” teaches that love can be beautiful, romantic, even sexy, without “letting all of you hang out.” Love is most liberating when it’s dedicated. Jazzmeia openly shares the story behind “Where We Are,” a mantra she sang to keep afloat during her darkest days. It’s also a dedication to the women who brought her to this point and women all around the world working to bring the next generation forward.
Her original songs paired with stunning…
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Sep 28, 2021
Lucy Yeghiazaryan & Vanish Gould - Episode 49
“Modern feminism encourages harder, more masculine elements in women and makes you feel sort of funny about being soft and gentle. I think that’s the opposite of what we need to do — I think we should embrace the fact that women are softer, more gentle, and caring, and love is at the center of all of that. To me, being a woman means embracing that, not trying to act more masculine so I can fit into society” - Lucy Yeghiazaryan
In Her Words tells the story of what it means to be a woman through original songs and jazz standards. While most of the world is telling women they have to be tough, masculine, and hard, Lucy Yeghiazaryan and Vanisha Gould have another idea. They believe the key to being a woman is embracing what makes them unique: the softer, gentler, and loving side. It also means embracing the fact that as women, we talk about love, romance, and men — a lot
Songs on their new album range from 'Gypsy Feet", a Vanisha Gould original about a non-committal woman leavi…
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Sep 21, 2021
Sasha Dobson: Girl Talk - Episode 48
“If you do something that matters to yourself, then all the extra stuff — whether people like it or not — has less importance. If it’s self-fulfilling, you can’t lose.”
Growing up with parents like singer Gail Dobson and the late pianist Smith Dobson, Sasha Dobson nurtured a love for jazz from a young age. However, she wasn’t afraid to embrace other genres on her musical journey. When her father suddenly passed away in a tragic car accident, the personal history and weight attached to jazz felt too heavy for Sasha to sing. Looking for a new avenue, Sasha started flirting with the idea of playing the guitar. It blossomed into a love for songwriting and Americana music — even starting the band Puss n Boots along with Norah Jones and Catherine Popper. But all those years of curating a love for jazz stirred up a renewed interest in Sasha, and she’s returned to her jazz roots with her latest album, Girl Talk.
Listen to the full interview with jazz vocalist Sasha Dobson t…
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Sep 13, 2021
Terence Thompson: If I Only Had A Band - Episode 47
“It IS a good morning. No matter what it is or what’s going on in life — there’s always someone else in a different situation.”
Terence Thompson brings his positivity and joy for life into his album If I Only Had A Band. Whether it’s embracing the day through his track “Good Morning,” or feeling welcomed into a warm, inviting restaurant like in “Yassie’s Cafe,” If I Only Had A Band will have you feeling good for all 20 tracks.
It’s not just the message that feels good — each tune really grooves. Terence combines his rap and R&B influence into this pseudo-jazz offering. While rap might seem like a far cry from jazz, Terence says they’re really not so different — he even calls them intertwined. Each genre carries similar themes, both are continually trying to push the envelope creatively, and they’re both truly American art forms. And, as he says, great music is great music.
Terence Thompson is also a notable and versatile producer for hundreds of indep…
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Sep 6, 2021
Samara Joy - Episode 46
“I wasn’t sure how far I would actually go, I was just happy to be somewhere singing”
Samara says she only started listening to jazz four years ago, but since then she’s won the Sarah Vaughn International Jazz Vocalist Competition (2019), played all over NYC, and performed in Europe. I wish I could say that much about myself by the time I was 23!
But getting started as a late bloomer wasn’t easy, and Samara often felt discouraged — it seemed like everyone on the New York City jazz scene already had their clique. Plus, watching everyone at school have it all together when she felt so new to the music made her want to quit. So what kept her going? Encouraging words from audience members, fellow musicians, friends, and professors. Someone else believing in you can give you the power to believe in yourself.
Now Samara has released her first album, backed by the Pasquale Grasso Trio. The playful interaction between guitar and vocals, joined by bass and drums, brings new life…
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Aug 31, 2021
Andrew Renfroe: Run in the Storm - Episode 45
“If you know anything about being on a boat, it’s that you can't be still — if you get sideways then you capsize. You literally have to make sure you’re pointed into the waves so you won’t sink. In life, you also have to keep trucking, keeping moving forward, and keep a forward vision”
The title of guitarist Andrew Renfroe’s latest album was inspired by a family history legend. When he was a kid, his family was caught in a terrible thunderstorm off the coast of Florida — so bad that the whole family almost drowned. But, they survived due to one key principle — when the waves are rocky, you can’t be still. You have to “run” headfirst into the waves. Only by staying in constant motion were they able to live to share their story.
When Andrew found himself in the stormy waters of his life — including ending a long-term relationship, among other big life changes — he knew had to do the same thing. Keep trucking, keep moving ahead, always maintaining that forwar…
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Aug 24, 2021
Rebecca Angel: Love, Life, Choices - Episode 44
“There’s so much outside of our control, but there’s a lot we can control to move forward and not let circumstances control our destiny”
Love, Life, Music. Jazz vocalist Rebecca Angel’s latest album reflects her journey through the last year. Love — Rebecca was one of the brave brides to get married during the pandemic. Life — is about rolling with the punches and learning how to cope with the tragedies of the last year. Choices — choosing to move forward in these trying times and focusing on how we can change instead of lamenting what is beyond our control.
Each song, whether it’s reggae, bossa nova, pop, or jazz, drives the theme of the album. And Rebecca Angel isn’t afraid to open up about the stories behind her music. In this episode of Bite-Size Jazz, Rebecca talks about how the song “Just the Two of Us” brought her and her now-husband together, the dream that sparked the lyrics for Erik Satie’s “Gymnopdie,” and how the lyrics to “Summer Song” c…
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Aug 16, 2021
Jeremy Pelt, Griot: This is Important! - Episode 43
“You can’t act like what came before you didn’t exist, or try to lessen the impact of those influences so that you seem more hip”
The term “griot” originates from a West African tradition of a traveling storyteller, poet, or musician. They journeyed abroad sharing tales of those who came before in order to pass on their ancestor's traditions. Trumpeter, educator, producer, and now author Jeremy Pelt has become a griot for the tradition of jazz in America.
Jeremy Pelt composed his latest album Griot: This is Important! as a companion to his book Griot: Examining the Lives of Jazz’s Greatest Storytellers Vol.1. The 15 interviews contained in the book candidly discuss the history of jazz, of black musicians in America, and the importance of passing on the tradition.
Listen to the full Bite-Size Jazz interview to learn more about Jeremy Pelt’s compositional process, the people he interviewed for the book, and why understanding the history of jazz is essential to understa…
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Aug 9, 2021
James Brandon Lewis: Jesup Wagon - Episode 42
“It’s like creating the soundtrack to a movie. Except there’s no movie.”
James Brandon Lewis found the inspiration for his latest album in the scientist and inventor George Carver Washington. Jesup Wagon depicts the journey of Carver and his mobile classroom among the poor farmers of the south on his mission to help them build better lives.
People say you have to experience something in order to play it. While James Brandon Lewis couldn’t literally step in the shoes of Mr. Carver — he did immerse himself in Carver’s published writings and personal letters in order to carry the essence of Carver’s life and mission into his music. In songs like “Experiment Station,” you can hear the innate curiosity of one of America’s most prominent black scientists. “Lowlands of Sorrow” carries the weight of this country’s dark racial history.
Listen to the full interview to learn more about what James Brandon Lewis discovered as he researched George Washington Carver, Ja…
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Aug 3, 2021
Billy Stritch: Billy's Place - Episode 41
“It's always a great lyric, but the more you perform, the more you live, and the more experience you have — the more meaning it takes on.”
Singer-Pianist Billy Stritch has been performing professionally for over 40 years. His talent as an accompanist has taken him all over the world — especially during his 25 years playing with Liza Minnelli, ducking from paparazzi, staying with celebrities like Frank Sinatra, and learning how to cope when the power goes off right before your show at the Hollywood Bowl.
But Billy is also a talented entertainer in his own right, and his latest venture of weekly live streams has been documented in his album Billy’s Place. Every Thursday night at 8 pm he invites the public into his “virtual speakeasy” for an hour of music and cocktails — as long as you make it yourself. The album Billy’s Place brings us 12 of his most beloved tunes, recorded in Nashville for Club44 Records.
Listen to the full interview to hear more from Billy Stritch…
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Jul 27, 2021
Molly Miller: St. George - Episode 40
“I’m not someone who’s like ‘I just play this genre.’ I play music. I play the guitar.”
Guitarist Molly Miller released St. George, which is hailed by some as a jazz album. But she’s also played with the Black-Eyed Peas and is the go-to guitarist for Jason Miraz. So where does that put her musically? Molly would say distinctions don't matter; for her, it’s all just music.
Molly also says her trio is trying to bring the instrumental back. While there is no singing on the album, you can hear the story in the emotion in her songs, whether it’s inspired by a breakup, touring, or the street she runs on every day.
Listen to the latest episode of Bite-Size Jazz to hear Molly talk about how bassist Jennifer Condos and drummer Jay Bellerose brought clarity to her music, how she deals with performance nerves, and why she chose the name St. George (hint: It’s not because of Utah)
Resources
Learn more about Molly Miller on her website, and find her album anywhere you strea…
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Jul 20, 2021
Cyrille Aimée & Michael Valeanu - Episode 39
“What’s special is that we don’t play it the same way twice. If we do it means we’re not really connected, we’re not really present.”
Cyrille Aimée and Michael Valeanu say their work as a duo started when their band couldn’t make it to a gig in Ohio because of a snowstorm - but after the response from the audience, they realized they could keep it going. One time in Milan, they had four encores as a duo! Their album I’ll Be Seeing You reflects their collaboration and relationship over the last decade.
In this interview, Cyrille Aimée and Michael Valeanu open up about their creative process. They talk about how they came up with arrangements for tunes like “Bye Bye Blackbird,” “Softly As In a Morning Sunrise” and “How Deep is the Ocean.” They also discuss the importance of listening and communicating through the music, what it means to be vulnerable and present, and how they keep the music fresh every time.
Resources
You can learn more about Cyrille Aim…
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Jul 13, 2021
Caity Gyorgy: Now Pronouncing - Episode 38
“My writing is a reflection of what I’m listening to and what I’m experiencing in my day-to-day life”
At 23-years-old, Caity Gyorgy is already an adept lyricist, songwriter, arranger, and bandleader. Her latest EP Now Pronouncing showcases her talents along with her hand-picked 10 piece band. Inspired by the music and cinema of the 50s and 60s, her original tunes fit right within the vein of the Great American Songbook.
Caity’s music varies from sweet love songs, to nostalgic remembrances, to witty sarcasm. In this episode of Bite-Size Jazz, Caity Gyorgy digs into who and what inspired each song - including how she and her long-time boyfriend met as teenagers, the house she left behind after her parent’s divorce, and the person who inspired the “diss track” on the album. Listen to the full interview to hear more!
Resources
Learn more about Caity on her website _caitygyorgy.com_ and find the full album anywhere you _stream music_.
Enjoying Bite-Size Jazz? You can su…
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Jul 6, 2021
Jonathan Karrant: Shadows Fall - Episode 37
“Don’t have a fallback plan, because then you’ll fall back on it.”
Jonathan Karrant didn’t grow up in the heart of Manhattan or Los Angeles, but that didn’t stop him from pursuing his dream career. Though he may be from a small town in Arkansas, he didn’t hesitate to move to New York City straight out of high school, where he found himself on the stage of the Metropolitan Opera and American Ballet Theater, before striking out for California and finally settling into the show business of Las Vegas.
Jonathan Karrant has received numerous awards, including the New York City Jazz Honors, “Best Singer” for the Bravo California Awards, and was named one of Downbeat’s top 12 rising jazz vocalists. His latest release, Shadows Fall, features duo arrangements with his longtime friend and musical collaborator, pianist Joshua White.
Resources
Learn more about Joshua on his website, _www.jonathankarrant.com_, and find the full album anywhere you stream music.
Enjoying Bite-…
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Jun 30, 2021
Simon Moullier: Countdown - Episode 36
“We’re trying to transcend our instruments. I think all musicians in general are trying to get to that point. When you get to a great way of expression you don’t really think about the medium, the instrument, anymore. You’re just in full expression and connection with the music.”
Vibraphonist Simon Moullier brings full expression to his latest album, Countdown. It's his second album, featuring drummer JK Kim and bassist Luca Allemanno. While his first album Spirit Song is mostly originals, Countdown explores jazz standards arranged so creatively, they almost sound like originals.
In this episode, we break down the amount of work it takes to bring a great arrangement to your band, how Simon Moullier finds new ideas for songs, and how Berklee's community outreach program changed the way he sees music.
Resources
Learn more about Simon Moullier on his website. You can find Countdown anywhere you stream music. It's also available for purchase on Amazon Music.
Enjoying B…
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Jun 22, 2021
Ulysses Owens Jr: Soul Conversations - Episode 35
Ulysses Owen’s Jr.’s latest album Soul Conversations brings us the energy of a live big band packed with the best in the business. The band is unique in bringing together veterans of the jazz scene with up-and-coming musicians and showcasing music written by band members throughout the album.
In this episode, Ulysses Owens Jr. dives into the creative process of his own original tunes from the groove to the bass lines, to the harmonies, and why he prefers writing with a friend. We also discuss why music and activism are intertwined, how he deals with critics, and his new book “The Musician's Career Guide."
Resources
Learn more about Ulysses Owens Jr. on his website. You can find Soul Conversations anywhere you stream music. It's also available for purchase on Amazon Music.
Enjoying Bite-Size Jazz? You can support the podcast by Buying Me a Coffee! You can also leave a review, subscribe on your _favorite podcast platform__,_ or follow us on _Instagram_, _Facebook_, and _Twitt…
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Jun 15, 2021
Alexa Tarantino: Firefly - Episode 34
Alexa Tarantino's album Firefly is her third recording as a leader in the last three years. But she's not only busy writing music for her own quartet, she's been involved with groups like the Jazz at Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra, Sherrie Maricle & The DIVA Jazz Orchestra, Cecile McLorin Salvant’s OGRESSE Ensemble and Arturo O’Farrill & The Afro-Latin Jazz Orchestra.
In this episode, she walks us through the composition process on tunes like "The Firefly Code," "Surge Capacity" and "Daybreak" while also talking about the unique process of recording during a pandemic. We also discuss the difference between playing in an all-woman group vs. an ensemble where she's the only female, what changes when you play with people you're comfortable with on a personal level, and her educational program "The Alexa Approach."
The Alexa Tarantino Quartet is rounded out with Behn Gillece on vibraphone, Rudy Royston on drums, Art Hirahara on piano and Boris Kozlov on bass.
Resources
Learn m…
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Jun 8, 2021
Osmond Chapman Orchestra - Episode 33
David Osmond and Caleb Chapman's new album More Where That Came From mixes the Great American Songbook with pop and original tunes into what they call a "New American Songbook." Laugh along with David and Caleb as they tell us the story of how their album came together and how they became the dynamic duo they are today (even accidentally becoming next-door neighbors at one point).
With Caleb's extensive jazz background (previous President of the Jazz Education Network and director of the Crescent Super Band, which has won many prestigious jazz awards), and David's background in show business (yes, he's part of THE Osmond family, nephew to Donny and Marie), they seemed like a bit of an odd couple at first. But Caleb says it was the perfect way to take world-class musicians and arrangements and pair them with a vocalist who could take the music in a whole new direction.
Along with snippets from the album, you'll get to hear about their collaborative effort with songwriter Roger Bro…
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Jun 2, 2021
Lezlie Harrison: Soul Book Vol. 1 - Episode 32
Vocalist Lezlie Harrison's debut album Soul Book Vol. 1 brings new life to favorites from the 70s. Lezlie says though she loves the Great American Songbook, that wasn't the music of her childhood. She grew up on music from Stevie Wonder, Earth Wind and Fire, Marvin Gay and the Delfonics. Lezlie's fresh takes on songs like Bill Wither's "Ain't No Sunshine" and Steve Wonder's "Lately" groove with Saul Rubin on guitar, Ben Paterson on organ, and Russell Carter on the drums.
Lezlie's also had quite the career. Fresh out of college, she started working for WBGO, the #1 jazz radio station, then explored France as a model and singer, then came back to New York to pursue a singing career and wound up back at WBGO where you can hear her now.
Resources
Learn more about Lezlie Harrison on her website. You can listen to Soul Book Vol. 1 anywhere you stream music. It's also available for purchase from Amazon Music.
Enjoying Bite-Size Jazz? You can support the podcast by Buying Me a Coffe…
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May 26, 2021
Jacques Schwarz-Bart - Episode 31
"There is something uplifting even in the most quiet pieces. It wants to express finding peace and balance within yourself."
Sone Ka-La 2: Odyssey is the sequel to Jacques Schwarz-Bart's album Sone Ka-La, released in 2005. Where the first album digs into the pain of the slave experience, the second celebrates triumph over struggle. Jacques says it's about finding the resolve to overcome.
Raised mainly on the island of Guadalupe in the French Caribbean, Jacques says the history of slavery there was similar to the history of the US. Slavery was first abolished in 1794, but then re-instated by Napolean I between 1802 and 1848. It was a tumultuous time, when slaves that had been free for 8 years were enslaved again after a revolt and a bloody clash between free slaves and Napolean I.
While that may sound dismal, the music on the album does not, celebrating the strength to rise above. Jacques integrates elements from Gwoka music, native to his island of Guadalupe, with more modern…
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May 18, 2021
Nicolas King: Act One - Episode 30
"Most kids go with their grandparents to bake pies...My grandmother took me to gigs."
Nicolas King's latest album, Act One, celebrates 25 years as a recording artist. And at 30-years-old, yes, that means his first recording came at age 5. From hanging out backstage at his grandmother's gigs, to starring on Broadway, to touring the US with Liza Minnelli and then starting his own act as a nightclub singer, Nicolas has had one heck of a career so far. And it's only Act One!
Check out the interview to hear Nicolas' story, bits of his music, and the importance of staying humble during your career!
Resources
Learn more about Nicolas King on his website. You can listen to Act One anywhere you stream music. It's also available for purchase from Amazon Music.
Enjoying Bite-Size Jazz? You can support the podcast by Buying Me a Coffee! You can also leave a review, subscribe on your _favorite podcast platform__,_ or follow me on _Instagram_, _Facebook_, and _Twitter_. I…
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May 11, 2021
Mandy Barnett/Sammy Nestico - Episode 29
"I don't know if someone like that ever retires, you never stop being a musician." At age 95, Sammy Nestico started writing music for what would become his last project, the album Every Star Above featuring Mandy Barnett.
Sammy Nestico wrote for musicians like Frank Sinatra, Buddy Rich, Bing Crosby, Michael Buble, and of course, the legendary Count Basie orchestra. Mandy Barnett says "He just exuded warmth, which you could hear in his arrangements. You could tell what kind of person he was by the music he wrote."
Mandy is a legend of her own as well. Though her career up to this point mainly focused on the country and bluegrass music she grew up hearing in East Tennessee, she's never forgottenthe big band music her grandmother used to play. When presented with an opportunity to record music from the Billie Holiday album Lady in Satin, Mandy leapt at the chance, saying it's one of her favorite records.
The combination of talent from Sammy Nestico, Mandy Barnett, and the 60-piece…
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May 4, 2021
James Hudson: Tomorrow - Episode 28
London-based jazz vocalist James Hudson says his goal with music is to bring a bit of joy to someone's day, and he certainly does that with his debut album Tomorrow. Along with his musical collaborators Nick Fitch and Joe Hill, James bring a pleasant twist to classic standards like "Pennies from Heaven," "Tomorrow" and "Almost Like Being in Love," that remind us to keep our chins up. He balances it out with a mournful bossa nova version of "It Had to Be You," and a somber treatment of "Someone to Watch Over Me," with a beautiful arco bass. James Hudson's takes on songs that have lasted over 100 years are a sure sign that they're bound to last a 100 more in the hands of great musicians.
Resources
Learn more about James Hudson on his website. You can listen to Tomorrow anywhere you stream music. It's also available for purchase through Amazon Music.
Enjoying Bite-Size Jazz? You can support the podcast by Buying Me a Coffee! You can also leave a review, subscribe on your _favorite po…
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Apr 27, 2021
John Pizzarelli: Better Days Ahead - Episode 27
"It actually kept me sane too, I lost both my parents literally a year ago, April 1st and April 8th. It was one of those things where, I had nowhere to go, I wasn't sleeping, so I would wake up at 6 am, think about what Pat Methany tune I wanted to learn and then go learn it."
John Pizzarelli released the first solo guitar album of his career on April 16th - Better Days Ahead - with 13 acoustic versions of Pat Methany tunes. John says that the album was recorded at the beginning of the pandemic, when the world was reeling from the revelation of an international pandemic, and he was reeling from the sudden death of both his parents. Those early morning practice sessions became not only a much needed lifeline, they became his next album.
Resources
Learn more about John Pizzarelli on his website. You can listen to Better Days Ahead anywhere you stream music. It's also available for purchase through Amazon Music.
Enjoying Bite-Size Jazz? You can support the podcast by Buying Me…
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Apr 13, 2021
Jane Monheit: Come What May - Episode 26
"Come What May, it's like, here we are, we're all doing our best, we're not gonna let anything stop us, we're still making music, and we're still recording. It's really just about us doing our best to hang in there and stick around, come what may!"
Jazz vocalist Jane Monheit celebrated her 20th year as a best-selling recording artist with the album Come What May. The past two decades have taken her across the globe singing to audiences in every corner of the world. While Jane is accustomed to traveling constantly — she knows the best spots in almost any airport — the pandemic has brought a unique change of pace. Rather than falling asleep in airplanes every night, Janes sings, "Let's Take A Walk Around the Block."
Come What May features 10 of Jane's favorite songs, polished from performance after performance. Some are lighthearted, such as "On the Sunny Side of the Street," others celebrate her long-time love of Brazilian music such as, "Sambo Do Aviao," Jane's luscious voi…
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Apr 6, 2021
Le Dad and The Ninos: Nowhere Else I'd Rather Be - Episode 25
Based out of Salt Lake City, the band Le Dad and The Ninos say they were influenced by genres such as R&B, soul and jazz. Their music is a mesh of styles, kind of like their name, a purposely non-sensical mix of French, English and Spanish. They recently released a single, "Nowhere Else I'd Rather Be," which they say is dedicated to Le Mom (who they're still looking for, by the way).
They also give us a preview of their next single "I Won’t Wait," a musical tribute to a dear friend and fellow musician who passed away far too young. “No one spoke music like Brooks did. It was like he put all his pain and darkness into the music and it came straight through the instrument.” The song serves as a reminder of the limited time available in this life, and emphasizes the importance of showing we care while we still can.
They plan to release the full album in late summer, recording tracks in the meantime from the drummer’s basement and a friend’s studio and dreaming of touring t…
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Mar 30, 2021
Emmet Cohen: Future Stride - Episode 24
"I'm concerned with the lineage, and excited by the lineage of the music and the lineage of humanity, knowing that in order to understand what's going to happen in the future, we have to understand and excavate things about the past."
Emmet Cohen discusses the importance of understanding the history and music of the jazz greats, before pushing the music forward into the future. His album Future Stride does just that, resurrecting 20s classics like "Dardanella" but also using modern techniques such as overdubbing on originals like "Little Angel."
Emmet Cohen is a serious student of the lineage of jazz. Jazz is a bit of a paradigm — it leans heavily on the influence of its predecessors, but encourages musicians to endlessly test its limits. However, one must clearly understand the history before beginning to push forward.
Emmet's album Future Stride does just that. Stride is considered a piano technique of the past, but he isn't afraid to embrace modern techniques while pla…
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Mar 23, 2021
Ramon Valle: Inner State - Episode 23
Jazz pianist Ramon Valle has a palpable enthusiasm for life — and more especially for jazz. Raised in Cuba, he was surrounded by the sound of improvised street music. Ramon's grandpa introduced him to the music of classical giants during the day, and his father played records by Dizzy Gillespie and Louis Armstrong while sharing milk and chocolate by night.
Those recordings were Ramon's jazz piano teacher. He listened so many times that he could sing them by heart. When a chance encounter with a professional jazz musician lead to an invitation to Europe, Ramon jumped at the chance. After his first European tour, Ramon realized he needed to stay in order to pursue his musical dreams. He's made Holland his home ever since.
Over the years, Ramon has learned many lessons about performing. The most important lesson? Surrendering to the music — let the music speak for itself. Ramon says, "When we play with ego, we play music from yesterday. You can't be present when you have an ego."
L…
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Mar 15, 2021
Veronica Swift: This Bitter Earth - Episode 22
Veronica explained that the concept for this album started years in advance - she wanted to have a record that was a commentary on global issues, but not a political activism album. "This Bitter Earth" does just that, talking about issues like racism, sexism, and domestic abuse among others. She does so in a witty, sarcastic way that gives way to her real opinion. But, she as she sings in the title track, if we all come together in the end, "this bitter earth may not be so bitter after all."
And of course, Veronica will blow you away with her singing, as will the band with her! Tune in, you'll love hearing from Veronica!
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Enjoying Bite-Size Jazz? You can support the podcast by Buying Me a Coffee! You can also leave a review, subscribe on your _favorite podcast platform__,_ or follow us on _Instagram_, _Facebook_, and _Twitter_. I’d love to connect with you!
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Mar 12, 2021
Patricia Brennan: Maquishti - Episode 21
Join me in conversation with vibraphonist Patricia Brennan as we discuss her solo album, Maquishti! We talk about the effects she uses in her music, her improvisation style, why she decided to do a solo album and more!
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Enjoying Bite-Size Jazz? You can support the podcast by Buying Me a Coffee! You can also leave a review, subscribe on your _favorite podcast platform__,_ or follow us on _Instagram_, _Facebook_, and _Twitter_. I’d love to connect with you!
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Mar 5, 2021
Gretchen Parlato: Flor - Episode 20
Gretchen Parlato, the award winning, Grammy-nominated, internationally touring jazz vocalist, just released a new album FLOR - available today - which is her first album in several years after taking a step back to focus on being a mom!
We talk about the songs on the album - why it was inspired by Brazilian Music, why she included a David Bowie song - and dive into her decision to focus on motherhood and how that changed her music!!
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Enjoying Bite-Size Jazz? You can support the podcast by Buying Me a Coffee! You can also leave a review, subscribe on your _favorite podcast platform__,_ or follow us on _Instagram_, _Facebook_, and _Twitter_. I’d love to connect with you!
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Feb 26, 2021
Derrick Gardner: A Ride to the Other Side - Episode 19
Down to earth, good humored, talented; any of these adjectives would perfectly describe trumpeter Derrick Gardner. He's a professor at the University of Manitoba, as well as a gregarious bandleader and composer. Join me as we talk about his various projects with his past band, The Jazz Prophets, his latest project, the Big DIg Band.
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Enjoying Bite-Size Jazz? You can support the podcast by Buying Me a Coffee! You can also leave a review, subscribe on your _favorite podcast platform__,_ or follow us on _Instagram_, _Facebook_, and _Twitter_. I’d love to connect with you!
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Feb 19, 2021
Melissa Aldana: Visions - Episode 18
Join me in conversation with Melissa Aldana as she talks about the life of artist Frida Kahlo and how it inspired the music of her album "Visions." We also talk about her experiences on the jazz scene in NYC, including the time she got to play with Roy Hargrove at a jam session.
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Enjoying Bite-Size Jazz? You can support the podcast by Buying Me a Coffee! You can also leave a review, subscribe on your _favorite podcast platform__,_ or follow us on _Instagram_, _Facebook_, and _Twitter_. I’d love to connect with you!
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Feb 5, 2021
Jihee Heo: Are You Ready? - Episode 17
Join me in conversation with Jihee Heo as we laugh about the adventures of teaching piano, her love/hate relationship with New York City, and discuss the inspiration behind her latest album "Are You Ready?"
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Enjoying Bite-Size Jazz? You can support the podcast by Buying Me a Coffee! You can also leave a review, subscribe on your _favorite podcast platform__,_ or follow us on _Instagram_, _Facebook_, and _Twitter_. I’d love to connect with you!
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Jan 22, 2021
Rosana Eckert: Sailing Home - Episode 16
Rosana Eckert is an ambitious vocalist who is dedicated to both her music and her family - a balance she tells us is hard to find! Enjoy the stories behind an album full of relatable songs.
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Enjoying Bite-Size Jazz? You can support the podcast by Buying Me a Coffee! You can also leave a review, subscribe on your _favorite podcast platform__,_ or follow us on _Instagram_, _Facebook_, and _Twitter_. I’d love to connect with you!
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Dec 16, 2020
David L. Harris: More Than Love, to Be a Man - Episode 15
Listen to New-Orleans based trombonist and vocalist David L. Harris's story of self-acceptance, and how he gained his perspective on what it means to be a man, as told through his latest album "More Than Love, to Be a Man."
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Enjoying Bite-Size Jazz? You can support the podcast by Buying Me a Coffee! You can also leave a review, subscribe on your _favorite podcast platform__,_ or follow us on _Instagram_, _Facebook_, and _Twitter_. I’d love to connect with you!
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Dec 4, 2020
Gabrielle Cavassa - Episode 14
Tune in to hear the incredible New Orleans based vocalist Gabrielle Cavassa open up about her self-titled album and her personal journey through life and love
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Enjoying Bite-Size Jazz? You can support the podcast by Buying Me a Coffee! You can also leave a review, subscribe on your _favorite podcast platform__,_ or follow us on _Instagram_, _Facebook_, and _Twitter_. I’d love to connect with you!
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Nov 29, 2020
Steven Feifke: Kinetic - Episode 13
Feel the energy of Steven Feifke's new single "Kinetic" in an interview with this talented pianist, bandleader and composer!
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Enjoying Bite-Size Jazz? You can support the podcast by Buying Me a Coffee! You can also leave a review, subscribe on your _favorite podcast platform__,_ or follow us on _Instagram_, _Facebook_, and _Twitter_. I’d love to connect with you!
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Nov 15, 2020
Kenny Barron: Without Deception - Episode 12
Kenny Barron tells us all about the story behind his latest album with Dave Holland and Johnathan Blake!
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Enjoying Bite-Size Jazz? You can support the podcast by Buying Me a Coffee! You can also leave a review, subscribe on your _favorite podcast platform__,_ or follow us on _Instagram_, _Facebook_, and _Twitter_. I’d love to connect with you!
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Nov 5, 2020
Justin Nielson: Divine Colors - Episode 11
An inspirational musician and passionate educator, pianist Justin Nielson's opens up about his album "Divine Colors."
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Enjoying Bite-Size Jazz? You can support the podcast by Buying Me a Coffee! You can also leave a review, subscribe on your _favorite podcast platform__,_ or follow us on _Instagram_, _Facebook_, and _Twitter_. I’d love to connect with you!
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Oct 25, 2020
John Pizzarelli: For Centennial Reasons - Episode 10
Listen to John Pizzarelli talk about the adventures of growing up with a famous jazz guitarist for a father, and how his father's introduction to Nat King Cole's music changed his career!
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Enjoying Bite-Size Jazz? You can support the podcast by Buying Me a Coffee! You can also leave a review, subscribe on your _favorite podcast platform__,_ or follow us on _Instagram_, _Facebook_, and _Twitter_. I’d love to connect with you!
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Oct 9, 2020
Delfeayo Marsalis: Jazz Party - Episode 09
Join the "Jazz Party" with Delfeayo Marsalis and the Uptown Jazz Orchestra with their latest album! Delfeayo tells us all about the culture of jazz in New Orleans along with the stories behind his music that will get you dancing!
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Enjoying Bite-Size Jazz? You can support the podcast by Buying Me a Coffee! You can also leave a review, subscribe on your _favorite podcast platform__,_ or follow us on _Instagram_, _Facebook_, and _Twitter_. I’d love to connect with you!
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Oct 2, 2020
Aaron Goldberg/Yes! Trio: Groove Du Jour - Episode 08
Pianist and philosopher Aaron Goldberg of the Yes! Trio walks us through their latest album "Groove Du Jour" and gives us compelling insight into both his music and studies.
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Enjoying Bite-Size Jazz? You can support the podcast by Buying Me a Coffee! You can also leave a review, subscribe on your _favorite podcast platform__,_ or follow us on _Instagram_, _Facebook_, and _Twitter_. I’d love to connect with you!
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Aug 23, 2020
Roxy Coss: Quintet - Episode 07
Get a taste of Roxy's latest album "Quintet" while listening to her talk about the struggles of women in jazz and her organization to combat those issues, WIJO.
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Enjoying Bite-Size Jazz? You can support the podcast by Buying Me a Coffee! You can also leave a review, subscribe on your _favorite podcast platform__,_ or follow us on _Instagram_, _Facebook_, and _Twitter_. I’d love to connect with you!
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Aug 9, 2020
Benny Benack III: A Lot of Livin' to Do - Episode 06
Benny Benack III gives us the inside scoop on his collaborations, arrangements and originals from his latest album, "A Lot of Livin' to Do!"
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Enjoying Bite-Size Jazz? You can support the podcast by Buying Me a Coffee! You can also leave a review, subscribe on your _favorite podcast platform__,_ or follow us on _Instagram_, _Facebook_, and _Twitter_. I’d love to connect with you!
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Jul 27, 2020
Catherine Russell: Alone Together - Episode 05
Listen to double-Grammy nominated vocalist Catherine Russell talk about her adventures as a backup singer for people like David Bowie, Steely Dan and Cyndi Lauper before launching her own solo career!
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Enjoying Bite-Size Jazz? You can support the podcast by Buying Me a Coffee! You can also leave a review, subscribe on your _favorite podcast platform__,_ or follow us on _Instagram_, _Facebook_, and _Twitter_. I’d love to connect with you!
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Jul 9, 2020
Rachael & Vilray - Episode 04
Check out a jazz duo with original music that sounds like it came straight out of the 30s & 40s!
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Enjoying Bite-Size Jazz? You can support the podcast by Buying Me a Coffee! You can also leave a review, subscribe on your _favorite podcast platform__,_ or follow us on _Instagram_, _Facebook_, and _Twitter_. I’d love to connect with you!
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Jun 26, 2020
Jamison Ross: All for One - Episode 03
The drummer for Snarky Puppy and winner of the 2012 Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz Competition talks about his album All for One.
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Enjoying Bite-Size Jazz? You can support the podcast by Buying Me a Coffee! You can also leave a review, subscribe on your _favorite podcast platform__,_ or follow us on _Instagram_, _Facebook_, and _Twitter_. I’d love to connect with you!
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Jun 26, 2020
Arianna Neikrug: Changes - Episode 02
Listen to the winner of the 2015 Sarah Vaughn International Vocal Competition talk about her debut album Changes.
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Enjoying Bite-Size Jazz? You can support the podcast by Buying Me a Coffee! You can also leave a review, subscribe on your _favorite podcast platform__,_ or follow us on _Instagram_, _Facebook_, and _Twitter_. I’d love to connect with you!
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Jun 26, 2020
Sara Gazarek: Thirsty Ghost - Episode 01
Check out the interview with Sara Gazarek about her double Grammy nominated album Thirsty Ghost. Hear all about her inspiration behind the album and her journey as a musician!
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Enjoying Bite-Size Jazz? You can support the podcast by Buying Me a Coffee! You can also leave a review, subscribe on your _favorite podcast platform__,_ or follow us on _Instagram_, _Facebook_, and _Twitter_. I’d love to connect with you!
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Jun 11, 2020
Bite Size Jazz Trailer
Bite Size Jazz: A podcast with a taste of new albums and new artists! In less than 10 minutes you get an insider's look at each artist's life and music. Musicians include people like Sara Gazarek, Kenny Barron, Jamison Ross and more.
Resources
Enjoying Bite-Size Jazz? You can support the podcast by Buying Me a Coffee! You can also leave a review, subscribe on your _favorite podcast platform__,_ or follow us on _Instagram_, _Facebook_, and _Twitter_. I’d love to connect with you!
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