Interview with Bruce Williams (5/4/2023)

(S3-EP.22)The Animals- Animalization (MGM)  Released August 1966. Recorded Jan 9, 1966 -July 4, 1966 Animalization by The Animals is a seminal album that exemplifies their blend of blues rock and R&B. Released during the British Invasion, it features Eric Burdon's powerful vocals, Hilton Valentine's distinctive guitar work, and Dave Rowberry’s skills on piano and keyboards. The album's raw sound and impactful tracks like "Don't Bring Me Down" and "Inside Looking Out" contributed to its commercial success, reaching number 20 on the U.S. Billboard 200 chart. Notably, the album saw lineup changes, with Barry Jenkins replacing John Steel on drums and producer Mickie Most giving way to Tom Wilson, known for his work with Bob Dylan and The Velvet Underground. Tracks like their rendition of "See See Rider" and the soulful "Gin House Blues" highlight the band's dynamic interpretations of blues classics. "Animalization" remains a testament to The Animals' significant role in shaping the era's rock music landscape with their electrifying performances and blues-infused style.

9 Jul 202417min

Don Braden Interview Don Braden, is a distinguished jazz saxophonist, flutist, composer, and educator. A Harvard graduate, Braden quickly became a sought-after sideman in New York, playing with legends like Betty Carter and Wynton Marsalis. As a bandleader, he has released numerous acclaimed albums, such as The Fire Within and Earth Wind and Wonder. Known for his rich tone and melodic inventiveness, Braden also excels as an educator, teaching at institutions like Harvard and the New Jersey Performing Arts Center, significantly contributing to the jazz world through both performance and education.

6 Jul 202430min

Guitarist James Popik brings a unique touch and repertoire to his music. From Acoustic Jazz to electrified Fusion Jams, classical Brazilian music and American songbook masters to reworked rock anthems, James has forged a unique voice. In this conversation James discusses his newest record Sourland Symphony and much more.

25 Jun 202424min

Originally a duo in 2012, 9 Horses, a New York City chamber jazz group featuring mandolinist Joe Brent, violinist Sara Caswell, and bassist Andrew Ryan, has evolved into a critically acclaimed trio. Their 2015 debut album, Perfectest Herald, established their sound: Brent's original compositions intertwined with the group's improvisational fire. Known for pushing boundaries, they explore the frontiers of chamber jazz. Their latest release, Strum (2024), joins in showcasing their genre-bending experimentation and emotionally rich music.

6 Jun 202459min

Giorgi Mikadze Interview Giorgi Mikadze, a Georgian pianist and composer, blends his cultural heritage with diverse musical experiences. Born during the Soviet Union's collapse, he began playing piano at four and trained classically at Tbilisi State Conservatoire. His discovery of jazz, through a composition teacher, led him to Berklee College of Music and later the Manhattan School of Music, where he refined his jazz skills. Mikadze has collaborated with artists like Wang Leehom and Roy Hargrove, and was the first Georgian to perform at the Newport Jazz Festival. His projects often integrate Georgian folk music with jazz, showcased in albums like "VOISA" and "Georgian Microjamz." His latest album, "Face to Face (Vol.1)," recorded in Paris, received critical acclaim. Now an associate professor at Berklee, Mikadze is committed to promoting Georgian music worldwide, celebrating the freedom that jazz offers.

21 Mai 202456min

Aaron Irwin Interview Saxophonist, multi-woodwind instrumentalist and composer Aaron Irwin is from central IL. Recognized as a “lyrical alto saxophonist and a compelling original composer” (Steve Futterman, The New Yorker), Irwin is a sought-after commodity in both the jazz and commercial worlds. His latest recording (After) will be released on Adhyâropa Records in May of 2024, featuring longtime bandmates Mike Baggetta on guitar and Jeff Hirshfield on drums. He has eight other recordings as a leader with instrumentations spanning from trio to sextet. In addition to his groups, Irwin has performed with many leading jazz voices in the New York music community including the Grammy-nominated Darcy James Argue’s Secret Society, Jamie Baum’s Septet +, Bob Sabin’s Tentet, The Mike Fahie Jazz Orchestra, the mixed wind group Weathervest, as well as pop artists Kristen Chenoweth, Rufus Wainwright, Josh Groban, Idina Menzel, and The Roots. Irwin maintains a busy schedule as a freelance musician, performing in jazz clubs, concert halls, and Broadway theatres, working with many of New York’s finest musicians and bands.

14 Mai 202430min

Billy Mohler is a Grammy-nominated bassist, producer, and songwriter who works with legends like Lady Gaga, Sia, Dolly Parton, Miley Cyrus, Katy Perry, Macy Gray, Ringo Starr, Herbie Hancock, Steven Tyler, and Smashing Pumpkins.  In addition to his incredible success in pop music, he is a noted jazz musician and has released several records under his name; his most recent album release available is called Ultraviolet with saxophonist Chris Speed, trumpeter Shane Endsley, and drummer Nate Wood.

6 Mai 20241h 8min

Esperanza Spalding Interview Esperanza Spalding, a Portland-born jazz musician, rose to prominence with her versatile talent as a bassist, singer, and composer. Trained in classical music from childhood, she explored various genres, leading to groundbreaking albums like "Esperanza" and "Chamber Music Society." Her Grammy win for Best New Artist in 2011 propelled her to international recognition despite competition from mainstream pop acts. Spalding's commitment to artistic integrity is evident in her experimental projects, such as writing and recording an album in 77 hours and exploring spirituality through music on "Songwrights Apothecary Lab." Collaborations with renowned artists like Wayne Shorter and Fred Hersch further cement her status as a jazz luminary. Now, as she embarks on a tour, she continues to captivate audiences with her innovative compositions and virtuosic performances.

1 Mai 202426min