Neon Jazz Interviews

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz Interview Series. On this episode, we talk with San Francisco-based jazz trumpeter, composer, producer, and bandleader Cameron Washington of Lazy Californians.

We caught up with Cameron to dive into his 2026 debut album Back to San Francisco, a high-energy project that blends the spirit of New Orleans jazz and brass band traditions with the vibrant pulse of San Francisco.

Leading a dynamic nine-piece ensemble, Cameron brings bold arrangements, infectious rhythms, and a powerful sense of groove that captures the raw energy and charisma of live brass performance.

Rooted in his New Orleans influences and shaped by his experiences on the West Coast, Back to San Francisco is both a celebration of tradition and a fresh, modern take on jazz.

In this conversation, we explore his musical journey, influences, creative process, and the story behind this explosive debut.

Dig this interview.

🎶 Get the album & more:https://www.lazycalifornians.com/

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Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz Interview Series featuring acclaimed jazz pianist Brian Haas of the New Orleans band Nolatet. We dive deep into their latest 2026 album, Somethin’ to Relax With, exploring the laid-back vibes, swinging grooves, and the inspiration behind the music.

Brian joins legendary musicians Mike Dillon (vibraphone), James Singleton (bass), and Johnny Vidacovich (drums) to discuss life on the road, the creative process, and the rich jazz history that influenced this project, including nods to Chet Baker. We also talk about their upcoming Kansas City show at Greenwood Social Hall on Saturday, April 11, 2026.

If you love jazz, smooth grooves, and insightful artist interviews, this is a must-watch!

🎵 Get the album & support Nolatet:Somethin’ to Relax With on BandcampSomethin’ to Relax With at Royal Potato Family

🎷 See the show:Greenwood Social Hall Events

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Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz Interview Series. On this episode, we talk with emerging Harlem-based jazz and soul vocalist Alicia Waller.

We caught up with Alicia to dive into her debut album Louder Then, a dynamic project that blends jazz, soul, and R&B into a deeply expressive and modern sound.

Co-produced by Marcos Varela—known for his work with the Mingus Big Band, Billy Hart, and Tyshawn Sorey—the album showcases Alicia’s evolution as an artist.

Trained in opera’s bel canto tradition, she now channels that technique into vernacular Black American music, creating a lush, dreamlike vocal style paired with powerful contemporary soul energy.

Following her 2020 EP Some Hidden Treasure, Alicia continues to carve out a compelling voice in today’s jazz landscape.

In this conversation, we explore her journey, influences, creative process, and the making of Louder Then.

Enjoy this powerful and soulful story.

🎶 Get the album & more:https://www.instagram.com/aliciawaller.music/

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Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz Interview Series. On this episode, we talk with veteran British jazz guitarist Mitch Dalton.

Known as one of the U.K.’s most in-demand studio musicians, Mitch has built a remarkable career working alongside legends like Herbie Hancock, Ella Fitzgerald, Wayne Shorter, Peggy Lee, and Quincy Jones.

We caught up with him just outside London to talk about his 2026 album Out of the Shadows, a project that sees this longtime sideman finally stepping into the spotlight as a solo artist.

Drawing from decades of session work and jazz performance, Out of the Shadows reflects Mitch’s deep love of jazz, rich musical history, and masterful guitar voice.

In this conversation, we explore his journey through the music industry, stories behind working with legends, and what it means to take center stage after years behind the scenes.

Dig this fascinating ride through the world of jazz.

🎶 Listen to the album:https://music.apple.com/us/album/out-of-the-shadows/1833317822

For More Neon Jazz:
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Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz Interview Series. On this episode, we talk with Canadian jazz trombonist, vocalist, and composer Audrey Ochoa.

We caught up with her to dive into her 2026 album The Sorceress, a vibrant fusion of jazz, electronica, swing, and pop that reflects the many influences shaping her evolving sound.

Having first connected during the uncertainty of 2020, Audrey has since become a regular voice on Neon Jazz—continuing to push boundaries and redefine her artistic identity.

Each track on The Sorceress blends improvisation with infectious hooks and lush harmonies, creating music that feels both familiar and refreshingly new.

In this conversation, we explore her transformation as an artist, the realities of today’s world, touring life, and the creative process behind this dynamic new release.

Dig this interview.

🎶 Get the album:https://audreyochoa.bandcamp.com/album/the-sorceress

For More Neon Jazz:
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The Home of Neon Jazz:http://theneonjazz.blogspot.com/

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