Neon Jazz Interviews

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with legendary Kansas City-born, Los Angeles-based jazz singer, pianist, and composer Betty Bryant.

At the remarkable age of 96, Betty returns with her 2026 album Nothin’ Better to Do — a recording that radiates the natural confidence of a seasoned club performance, where the music speaks for itself. With a storyteller’s instinct and deep respect for melody, she delivers a timeless jazz experience shaped by decades of artistry, not trends.

Produced by Robert Kyle, the album features an exceptional group of Southern California musicians who create a sound that is both intimate and expansive—perfectly supporting Betty’s voice without overshadowing it.

In this interview, we explore:

The making of Nothin’ Better to Do

Her incredible journey through jazz history

Growing up in Kansas City

Her connection to fellow jazz great Marilyn Maye

Performing and recording at 96 years young

🎧 Get the album here:https://betybryant.bandcamp.com/album/nothin-better-to-do?from=discover_page

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Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz Interview Series. On this episode, we talk with acclaimed jazz pianist and composer Yelena Eckemoff.

Known for her richly imaginative musical storytelling, Yelena returns with her 2026 album Rosendals Garden—a stunning trio project inspired by the natural beauty, history, and quiet magic of Sweden.

Set for worldwide release on March 27, 2026, this 11-track album marks her 23rd release since 2010. Recorded with some of Sweden’s most prominent musicians, the project goes beyond capturing picturesque landscapes—it dives deep into emotion, memory, and the composer’s personal reflections on the natural world.

Inspired by her travels and the serene sanctuary of Rosendals Garden, the album blends sophisticated jazz improvisation with a deeply expressive narrative. Adding another artistic layer, the cover features Yelena’s own painting, further connecting her visual and musical creativity.

In this interview, we explore the album, her creative process, inspirations, and her ongoing evolution as one of modern jazz’s most distinctive voices.

Enjoy this immersive and inspiring conversation.

🎶 Get the album:https://yelenaeckemoff.bandcamp.com/album/rosendals-garden

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Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz Interview Series. On this episode, we talk with trumpeter and advocate Jeffrey Nussbaum and celebrated drummer Bobby Sanabria.

We dive into the powerful story behind the 2026 album From My Shiny Imagination: Music by Sam Baum, a project that brings heart, purpose, and extraordinary musicianship together.

Jeffrey shares the inspiring journey of his son Sam, an autistic jazz pianist and composer who has forged a path into the professional music world. Through his nonprofit Special Audiences and Musicians, Jeff is helping create real performance opportunities for musicians with autism and disabilities—building a community rooted in inclusion and artistic excellence.

The album, released on April 3, 2026, aligns with World Autism Awareness Day and National Autism Awareness Month, amplifying its message of awareness and empowerment.

Joining Bobby on this project is an incredible lineup, including Dan Block and the legendary David Amram, who appears on penny whistle.

In this conversation, we explore the making of the album, the mission behind the music, and the profound impact of creating opportunities for all artists.

Enjoy this moving and meaningful interview.

🎶 Get the album:https://specialaudiencesandmusicians.bandcamp.com/album/from-my-shiny-imagination-tunes-by-sam-baum

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Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz Interview Series. On this episode, we talk with Latin Grammy Award-winning percussionist and composer Samuel Torres.

Born in Bogotá, Samuel has built an extraordinary international career, blending Latin rhythms with jazz sophistication and classical textures.

We caught up with him to discuss his 2024 album A Dance for Birds, a deeply personal and visionary project brought to life by his Latin Chamber Ensemble and featuring the acclaimed Bergamot String Quartet.

This album showcases a rich fusion of styles—where rhythm, melody, and orchestration meet to create a unique and immersive musical experience.

In this interview, we dive into his journey, inspirations, the making of the album, and his evolution as an artist on the global stage.

Dig into this vibrant and powerful conversation.

🎶 Get the album & more:https://www.samueltorres.com/latin-chamber-ensemble-members

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Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz Interview Series. On this episode, we talk with musicians Kyle Nasser and Nick Jost of the Brooklyn-based trio Triple Blind.

Formed during the COVID-19 lockdown, Triple Blind brings together longtime collaborators Kyle Nasser, Nick Jost, and drummer Peter Kronreif—musicians who had been performing together in various settings for over a decade before officially launching the group.

Following their 2021 debut, the trio returns with their 2026 sophomore release Cold Walk, featuring Dov Manski on keys. The album captures the spirit of modern jazz with a deep sense of interplay, improvisation, and the pulse of contemporary life.

We caught up with them from Brooklyn to talk about the new album, their creative evolution, touring, and navigating music in today’s world.

Dig this insightful and forward-looking jazz conversation.

🎶 Get the album:https://tripleblind.bandcamp.com/album/cold-walk

For More Neon Jazz:
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