Backstage Jazz

This episode of the Backstage Jazz Show features an interview with Linda Theus-Lee. She discusses her extensive musical career, education, and community involvement. She shares insights into her songs “Don't Stop the Music” and “You Make Me Smile,” highlighting the personal significance and inspiration behind the lyrics. 

Linda also details her upcoming show at Dazzlein downtown Denver, emphasizing her diverse musical abilities and commitment to celebrating women's history in music. 

Throughout the interview, Linda emphasizes her belief in education as a transformative force and her commitment to fostering a love for literacy and music through various programs in convalescent homes. This episode comprehensively overviews Linda Theus Lee's multifaceted career, passion for music, and dedication to community engagement.

In this episode of Backstage Jazz, host Steve Roby interviews trumpeter Jason Klobnak, the leader of J's Ruckus. They delve into Jason's impressive music background, discussing his early days playing in church and community jazz organizations. 

Jason shares that he originally hails from Des Moines, Iowa. He moved to Denver in 2004 to pursue his master's degree at the University of Denver, where he studied with renowned trumpeter Al Hood. 

Jason has accomplished much in the music industry throughout his career, including writing and publishing two jazz improv books and establishing an online school to teach improvisation. He's also taken on clinical work, conducting clinics at colleges and high schools and performing and composing with various groups. Jason's diverse experiences have ultimately led him to his current position as the music program chair at Arapahoe Community College.

The conversation shifts to J's Ruckus, Jason's innovative jazz fusion group. Steve explores the origins of the band and its unique approach to music. The band incorporates various styles, such as hip-hop, jazz fusion, and R&B, along with the use of effects pedals on the horns. 

The incredible rapping skills of R. Allen Brooks also accompany the music. Jason introduces each band member, highlighting their talents and the chemistry they have developed over the years. He emphasizes the fun nature of their music, both for the audience and the band members.

You can catch J's Ruckus at Dazzle on February 22 for a 6:30 p.m. show -tickets and info here.

This episode, Backstage Jazz, features an engaging conversation between host Steve Roby, Grammy-nominated singer Tierney Sutton, and jazz pianist Tamir Hendelman.

The duo delves into their musical journeys, from Tierney's discovery of jazz in college to Tamir's camaraderie and love for performing together. 

The episode also highlights their collaborative efforts during the pandemic, connecting with audiences through online concerts.

They discuss remarkable performances, including a special remote recording that solidified their musical bond. Tierney and Tamir share stories of their themed shows, featuring the songs of Johnny Mercer and the challenges and adventures of touring. 

Sutton and Hendelman express excitement about reconnecting with Denver audiences at Dazzle, discussing their upcoming Valentine's Month show, "L.O.V.E." 

Throughout, the duo showcases their passion for the Great American Songbook and their unique interpretations of beloved classics alongside lesser-known gems. 

Listeners can find their music on various streaming platforms, and details about their shows at Dazzleare included. 

Overall, this episode offers an intimate glimpse into the musical careers and artistry of Tierney Sutton and Tamir Hendelman

In this episode of Backstage Jazz, host Steve Roby interviews Aldo Pantoja, the lead singer of Don Chicharrón, Denver's only chicha band. Aldo explains the origins and influences of chicha music, a style of cumbia from Peru that blends elements of punk, surf, jazz, and salsa. He also discusses the band's formation and introduces two of their songs, “Sábado Gigante” and “Valle.” 

The podcast concludes with details about Don Chicharron’s upcoming show at Dazzle on February 16. 

Follow them on social media for more information and to get their music. Join Aldo and the band for a night of groovy cumbia rhythms and dancing at Dazzle.

When a jazz musician rolls into Denver for a performance, it's not often that a documentary film and immersive art exhibition await them. But jazz-great Eddie Henderson is no ordinary musician, nor has he led an ordinary life.

A few hours before Henderson played a two-show set at Denver’s premier jazz venue, Dazzle, an exhibit called Time and Spaces: The Life of Eddie Henderson opened to the public at the CU Denver Experience Gallery in the Denver Performing Arts Complex. It features archival photos, one of Henderson’s trumpets, and memorabilia, including a pair of skates he wore as a professional figure skater.

There was also a room to view a twenty-minute clip of the documentary Dr. Eddie Henderson: Uncommon Genius. The film examines the 83-year-old musician’s life, including how he overcame racial barriers and broke into fields that underrepresented Black men. In the 1960s, he became a professional figure skater and a practicing medical doctor. The documentary by Michelle Carpenter will screen at film festivals nationwide and air on PBS in February.

In this episode, we’ll hear from Andrew Palamara, the Gallery Coordinator for the exhibit Time and Spaces, Michelle Carpenter, documentarian for the film Dr. Eddie Henderson: Uncommon Genius, but up first is Mark Rabideau, a tenured professor of music at Colorado University and a good friend to Eddie Henderson. 

Be sure to stick around for an exclusive interview with Dr. Henderson towards the end of this podcast.

Today, we're diving deep into the vibrant jazz scene keeping Denver swinging. So, sit back, relax, or swing along as we unravel the best of Denver's live music spots and events jazzing up the city.

In this episode of the Backstage Jazz Show, host Steve Roby interviews arranger, composer, and pianist Dave Hansen. The discussion delves deep into Dave's musical journey, from his beginnings in saxophone performance to his vast experience composing for various artists and ensembles, including the Boston Pops.

It also highlights his fascinating career as a music educator that spanned 36 years at the University of Denver. The conversation further pivots to Dave's upcoming residency at DAZZLEstarting February 18, along with a preview of some of his songs. The three-night residency promises a diverse range of performances, starting with a duo concert with violinist Claude Sim, followed by a tribute to his friend Al Hood, and concludes with a live recording of original compositions for piano, bass, and drums.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Presentation

00:33 Dave Hansen's Musical Journey

04:47 Exploring Dave's Music

21:47 Dave's Upcoming Shows at DAZZLE

21:55 In-depth Look at Each Show

28:34 Recording Live at DAZZLE

31:46 Where to Find Dave's Music

32:44 Conclusion and Farewell

Jazziz magazine writes that Nelson Rangell is “an artist of depth, a master of song, and an improviser non pareil.” The Times of London notes “his extraordinary facility on a range of instruments” and Rangell’s “considerable crowd-pleasing power.” Saxophone Journal writes, “He commands the alto saxophone with such authority there can be no denying that Rangell is a true artist.” Flute Talk Magazine states, “Nelson Rangell creates the impression that anything is possible when improvising.” Such praise is a confirmation of what contemporary jazz fans have known since the Denver-based saxophonist emerged in the late 80s: that Rangell is one of the most exciting and diverse performers in the genre, equally adept at soprano, alto, and tenor saxophone, as well as being a genuine virtuoso on flute and piccolo.

Nelson Rangell and his band will perform two shows at Dazzle on Saturday, February 3. The early show is at 6:30, and the later starts at 9 p.m. For tickets and more info, visit https://www.dazzledenver.com/

After playing the blues for the first time in his Middle School Jazz band, Sean Applebee was in awe at the sensation of spiritual healing he had never experienced before. From this moment forward, Sean sought to learn everything he could about what he had experienced, however he still struggled to find an answer. 

Eventually, Sean met world-renowned trumpeter Brad Goode at the University of Colorado Boulder’s Summer Jazz Camp when he was seventeen. The sheer amount of intention and spirituality that each musician put into their playing brought Sean so much joy that he could not stop singing every song after each performance. The music brought a whole new dimension of color and wonder to his life beyond anything experiments and calculations could quantify.

Sean is now dedicated to learning as much as he can in order to play music that touches people’s souls so that he can heal the world one person at a time. 

To lean more about his music, visit: https://www.seanapplebeeandbeyond.com/

Show notes: One of the most highly regarded jazz drummers today, Joe is known for his blazing speed, precision, musical, and melodic playing.

Born in South Hadley, Massachusetts, in 1968, Joe grew up in a musical family; his father was a music educator, and he has four older brothers, two of whom became professional musicians.

He studied with Alan Dawson and Arthur Taylor prior to attending and graduating from William Patterson College in New Jersey in 1994, where he began playing with saxophonist Eric Alexander and guitarist Peter Bernstein.

Upon moving to New York City, he led the weekend jazz combos at Augie’s (now Smoke Jazz & Supper Club). He performed with Junior Cook, Cecil Payne, John Ore, Big John Patton, Harold Mabern, Eddie Henderson, John Jenkins, and his brothers, John and James.

Joseph’s career includes recording over 100 CDs as leader and side-man, jazz festivals, and world tours with Pharaoh Sanders, Horace Silver, Harold Mabern, McCoy Tyner, Cedar Walton, Diana Krall, Benny Golson, George Coleman, Johnny Griffin, Lou Donaldson, Benny Green, Barry Harris, Curtis Fuller to name a few.

He was the drummer for the late McCoy Tyner, a member of the late Pharaoh Sanders Quartet, and the late Harold Mabern Trio, and is a founding member of the renowned One for All Quintet.

My recordings as a leader include Drumspeak and Beautiful Friendship feats. Cedar Walton and Curtis Fuller, Prime Time, Super Prime Time, and Make Someone Happy.

Sarah Hanahan is an up-and-coming jazz saxophonist in New York City. Sarah is a graduate of the Jackie McLean Institute of Jazz at the Hartt School of Music, where she received her Bachelor's degree in 2019, as well as The Juilliard School, where she received her master's degree in 2022. She has had the privilege of studying with some of the greats of our time, including Abraham Burton, Nat Reeves, Steve Davis, Billy Drummond, and Marc Cary.

This episode features an interview with award-winning jazz pianist and composer Emmet Cohen. 

We discussed his current release, Master Legacy Series Vol. 5, and his upcoming concert at the Newman Center for the Performing Arts on Saturday, February 3.

Jazz pianist and composer Emmet Cohen is one of his generation's pivotal figures in music and the related arts. Leader of the Emmet Cohen Trio and creator of the Masters Legacy Series, he’s an internationally acclaimed jazz artist, a dedicated educator, and a finalist in the 2011 Thelonious Monk International Piano  Competition.

Tansy Wine defies genre boundaries and captivates audiences with its unique blend of jazz, art music, and more. Tansy Wine has a stunning display of up-and-coming musical powerhouses in its ranks - Sofia Avery (Composition & Vocals), Sonya Walker (Keys), Maximillian Moore (Keys), William Kuepper (Bass), and Gabriel Gravagno (Drums). Tansy Wine’s engine runs on resplendent skill and focus from all five, knitting together a vibrant musical landscape and bringing otherworldly stories to life. Bandleader Sofia was the 2018 Gift Of Jazz Award winner and an arranger for the CSO’s 2020 Martin Luther King Jr. Humanitarian Awards ceremony.

Iterations of Tansy Wine’s rhythm section feature regularly as the house band for the Mercury Cafe’s weekly jazz jam (highlighted in Westword’s “Best Shows to Go Out and See”). Tansy Wine's shared passion for collaboration, experimentation, and exploring the future of jazz has fused into a truly extraordinary sonic experience.

Catch them live at Dazzle on Friday, January 26, 2024.

Our guest today is Shane Dähler, drummer for the contemporary jazz quintet. Daruma will appear at Dazzle on Sat, January 20. 

Daruma is a fresh, new, contemporary jazz project featuring original music by some of Denver’s finest young talent. Their sound takes audiences from deep grooves to intimate ballads to Coltrane-inspired swing. Daruma reinterprets the jazz aesthetic for the 21st century and crosses it with progressive rock, film music, and neo-soul in a genre-bending original sound.

Ensemble members have performed with leading voices in contemporary music, ranging from Billy Childs, Rufus Reid, and Tia Fuller to the Colorado Symphony Orchestra and Big Gigantic. They’ve played at notable venues, including Red Rocks Amphitheatre, the Blue Note Amsterdam, and Birdland, and have won ASCAP and Downbeat awards.

The ensemble will release its debut album on the respected Monk Music label in the spring of 2024.

“iies.” is an emerging artist/band from Denver, CO. The name “iies” is coined from the lead vocalist’s birth name "Craig Northup II," which takes the Roman numeral two to symbolize the two letter "i’s," creating the word "iies."- pronounced "eyes".

known for engaging performances & past debut hip-hop albums such as "Poetry in the Field" and "Rebirth", iies. now tours Denver with “The iies. Collective,” a band dedicated to pushing the musical envelope by bending genres and lyrical feats with a style they call “experimental jazz rap” and “Homesickness." Their latest single blends Folk, Hip-Hop, Jazz, and ambient music in a refreshingly new and beautiful way - sure to bring you into tears and the realm of nostalgia. The collective plans to release their latest debut album in the following months!

Craig (Lead Vocalist) Baz Gillen (drums), Killian Bertsch (Piano), Aidan Roberts (guitar), and Jacob Montano (bass) have showcased at notable venues around Denver, such as Appaloosa, Lost Lake, The Roxy Theater, The Roxy Broadway, The Gothic Theater, Cervantes, Your Mom's House, Underground Music Showcase, Sofar Denver and many more. They are known for hypnotic rhythms, electrifying lyrical feats, and dazzling solos - told by many as a must-see act! 

Far from past personas and no longer held by the mental restraints of societal, parental, and internal shortcomings, iies. now expresses a fully realized identity proudly with stories of trauma, culture, redemption, and spirituality.

Alex Heffron is a jazz guitarist located in Denver, CO.  Alex has a degree in Jazz Guitar from the University of Colorado Boulder. He is a member of numerous groups around Colorado and has performed with many of the local legends, including Ken Walker, Eric Gunnison, Paul Romaine, John Gunther, Paul Warburton, Bob Montgomery, Paul McKee, Jeff Jenkins, Joe Anderies, Gabe Mervine, and Todd Reid, to name a few.

He has performed with noted artists such as Tony Monaco, John Riley, Kenwood Denard, Pat Coil, Greg Gisbert, Matt Wilson, Melvin Butler, Corey Christiansen, Earl Klugh, John Von Ohlen, Marvin Stamm, Cody Moffett, Howard Levy, Donald Harrison, Chuck Lamb, Dave Roitstein, Brad Goode, and many others. 

Alex was also selected as one of 89.3 KUVO's 30 musicians under 30 initiative, which highlighted young and upcoming musicians around the Denver area.  He has been playing guitar since he was 9 years old and studied with the best in Denver and around the world. Alex continues to learn and study from the incredible tradition of jazz and classical music while trying to refine his own voice in jazz guitar.

The Jacob Larson Band is a 10-piece funk and soul ensemble combining powerhouse vocals, classic instrumentation, and an old-school approach to music. Digging inspiration from the roots of soul religion, the band shares their own take on notable influences such as Tower of Power, Stevie Wonder, and Earth, Wind, and Fire. 

Jacob, an experienced entertainer with a strong and soulful voice, leads the band with true dynamic flair and presence, delivering the goods with a performance that moves and excites concert-goers of all ages.

The Jacob Larson Band will appear at Dazzle on Friday, January 12, 2024, for a 6:30 p.m. show.

An in-demand keyboardist outside his own projects, Adam Bodine, has racked up thousands of performances with hundreds of groups, playing alongside some of the best in the biz. A go-to studio session musician to boot, Bodine is regularly recruited for all sorts of recording work. He has also accompanied various theatrical productions, including musicals, silent films, improv comedy, dance troupes, and various cultural arts and social justice presentations.

Extra cool, Adam currently plays in the house band at eTown, the illustrious and nationally syndicated radio show and multimedia organization out of Boulder. In recent times with eTown, Adam has accompanied a myriad of popular artists including Rufus Wainwright, Madison Cunningham, City and Colour, Shovels and Rope, The Milk Carton Kids, The Secret Sisters, Bruce Cockburn, Ron Sexsmith, Peter Rowan, Daniel Rodriguez, Abraham Alexander, S.G. Goodman, Allison Russell, Calexico, Buffalo Nichols, Jake Blount, Parker Millsap, The Ballroom Thieves, Mmeadows, Dom Flemons, and The War and Treaty.

Bodine will appear at Dazzle on Wed, December 27, 2023.

Mike Marlier has performed and recorded with countless artists and musicians, including Dave Grusin, Nelson Rangell, Benny Golson, Bobby Shew, Rob Mullins, the Neophonic Jazz Orchestra, Lee Ritenour, and Stanley Jordan. He is the staff drummer at the annual Conference on World Affairs at CU and Mile Hi Church in Lakewood. Marlier was the featured drummer at the Buddy Rich Memorial Concert presented by the Gift of Jazz in 2009 and presented a clinic and masterclass at a Gospel Chops seminar in Taipei, Taiwan, in 2014. 

Eric Gunnison has worked extensively with trumpeter Ron Miles, with whom he has toured and recorded since 1997, including appearing as a clinician and pianist with Miles’s quartet at the 1st Annual Thailand Jazz Conference and the Bangkok Jazz Festival in 2009. Gunnison has also been the pianist and a composer/arranger for the cooperative band Convergence, one of Denver’s leading jazz ensembles, since 1991. In addition to releasing several recordings, Convergence hosts a monthly series of appearances with special guest jazz artists at Denver’s premier jazz club Dazzle that, since February 2010, has featured Roberta Gambarini, Rene Marie, Randy Brecker, Jim McNeely, Chris Potter, Christian McBride, Wallace Roney, and Bobby Watson among others.

The Eric Gunnison & Mike Marlier tribute to Chick Corea will take place on Wednesday, January 3. Showtime is 6:30 PM, with doors opening at 5:30 p.m. Tickets and more info: https://www.dazzledenver.com

Max Bessesen is a multi-woodwind instrumentalist and composer in NYC. His “saxophone virtuosity” (Downbeat) has made him an in-demand sideman alongside musicians like Frank Lacy, Joe Farnsworth, and Mimi Jones. He has performed across the US, the Netherlands, Jordan, and NYC venues like Dizzy’s, Ornithology, and Birdland. His acclaimed 2020 album Trouble (Ropeadope) features Ron Miles, and the single “Bakkam” won an ASCAP Young Jazz Composer Award.

Max Bessesen and his group will appear at Dazzle on Wednesday, December 27, for a 7:30 p.m. show. Doors open at 7. 

Lynn Skinner is a classically trained vocalist whose out-of-the-box personality quickly led her to weave her 3-octave voice into jazz, original music, folk, bossa nova, and a series of tribute concerts ranging from Duke Ellington to Joni Mitchell.

For over 40 years, Lynn has brought her artistry as a Denver-based performer and voice educator to much of the USA, the UK, France, and Switzerland in intimate cafés, clubs, schools, festivals, and concert halls.

Lynn Skinner and her band will perform at Dazzle (Denver) on Thursday, January 4, for a 6:30 p.m. show. Doors open at 5:30. 

DAES is a group of musicians committed to pushing the boundaries of jazz music through modern jazz hip-hop fusion. DAES comprises current and former students from the Denver School of the Arts. Members include Elias Earl (vibraphone), Declan Scully aka GOLDICHOPS (drums), Scarlet Before-Horses (piano), Aesop Pelta-Tiller (bass), and Gwen Parney featured on saxophone.

DAES will perform at Dazzle on Friday, January 5, for a 6:30 p.m. show. Doors open at 5:30.

This episode of Backstage Jazz features an interview with Koki Renwick of Moon.unit. We discussed their music and upcoming performance at Dazzleon Saturday, January 6.

Moon.unit is an emerging project out of Boston, a brainchild of three current New England Conservatory students. It features Denver’s own Koki Renwick on trumpet, synth, and electronics, Jake Walters on piano, synth bass, and vocals, and Dominic Vance on drums, electronics, percussion, and moon.unit combines the styles of modern jazz, free and noise music, hip-hop, and pop genres into a unique listening experience. 

This episode of Backstage Jazz features an interview with Denver guitarist, composer, and teacher J.J. Murphy. We discussed his upcoming performance at Dazzleon Saturday, December 16.

As a composer and a guitarist, J.J. Murphy brings a soulful vitality to contemporary music. His sound is an effortless blend of folk, blues, rock, and jazz, with covers from Thelonious Monk to Radiohead.

“JJ is an inspiring guitarist well versed in many styles, but he made me fall in love with blues and slide guitar all over again,” said Dave Abear (Melvin Seals and JGB). Nashville-based producer Ryan Connors defines Murphy's style as “the blues-inspired rawness of Eric Clapton with the jazz vocabulary and sensitivity of Bill Frisell.”

JJ Murphy, Nate Miller, Kirwan Brown, and Braxton Kahn will perform on Saturday, December 16, at 9 p.m. (doors open at 8:30). The material will be rooted in funk, but it can go any direction at any moment. The band will draw on original material from each member and some songs the audience knows. The music will make you want to move.

In this episode of Backstage Jazz, we spoke with Laurena Frihauf, a rising star in the music industry whose talent has been recognized on prestigious platforms. 

She discussed her upcoming solo album and performance at Dazzle on December 7th.

Her music carries an indie singer-songwriter essence, infused with folk and neo-soul elements, creating a captivating and unique sonic landscape. Surprisingly, Lauren's urban vibe starkly contrasts the rural farm where she lives and creates, adding an intriguing dimension to her artistry. 

More info: https://laurenfrihaufmusic.com/

This episode features an interview with Grammy-nominated musician Art Lande and jazz sax player Sam Williams. We discussed tracks from their current album Portals,andthe duo’s upcoming show at Dazzle on November 26.

Sam Williams is a saxophonist and music educator, currently residing in Boulder, CO. Experienced in various music styles, Sam performs regularly in jazz venues and concert halls throughout northern Colorado and beyond.

Grammy-nominated Art Lande is an internationally known pianist, composer, improviser, drummer, and educator who has performed with a long list of the Who's Who in jazz, including Joe Henderson, Woody Shaw, Bobby Hutcherson, Steve Swallow, Charlie Haden, Kenny Wheeler, Sheila Jordan, Mark Isham, Paul McCandless, Jan Garbarek, and many others.

This episode of Backstage Jazz features an interview with the legendary jazz/funk organist Ronnie Foster. We discussed his latest album, Reboot, and his upcoming shows at Dazzle.

Ronnie Foster’s return to Blue Note Records is an event of synergistic quintessence, completeness, and coolness. The organ great’s dynamic new album, Reboot, arrives upon the 50th anniversary of his 1972 Blue Note debut, Two Headed Freap, which is also being reissued this year as part of the label’s Classic Vinyl Series...

Justin Adams is a versatile, first-call Denver jazz pianist and educator. Justin has performed with jazz greats Claudio Roditi, J.P. Torres, Chris Calloway, Candido Camaro, and Claudio Slon and has played at many national jazz festivals and appeared numerous times at Nocturne with the Derek Banach Quintet. 

In this episode, we discussed the value of music education and listened to a few tracks with his band, Medianoche Honrado.

Theon Cross is an award-winning tuba player and composer. He is a key component of London’s thriving jazz scene, and his unique sound has been described as ‘innovative’ and hailed for ‘reinventing the tuba.’

His debut EP ‘Aspirations’ brought him international attention and garnered him a Jazz FM nomination for Best Jazz Newcomer in 2016. In 2019, he released his debut album ‘Fyah’ which was met with critical acclaim worldwide, charting at # 1 on the UK official Jazz & Blues charts, # 23 on the US Jazz Billboard, and garnered high praise from major publications such as Rolling Stone Magazine, Pitchfork, The New York Times, The Guardian and NPR leading him to tour extensively throughout Europe, North America and South America.

This episode features an interview with musician, bandleader, and composer Reid Poole. We discussed and played a few tracks from his catalog and talked about his upcoming show at Dazzle on November 8.

Reid's proficiency knows no bounds, whether it's the raw emotion of the blues, the timeless notes of traditional New Orleans brass bands, or the intricate rhythms of bebop.

This episode features an interview with jazz guitarist Steve Langemo. We discussed tracks from his album Up From The Outside and talked about his upcoming show at Dazzle on November 24.

As a solo artist, Steve has released three full-length albums of original jazz/funk/fusion material: Out Loud in 2008, There to Here in 2018, and Up From The Outside in 2022.

This episode of Backstage Jazz features an interview with jazz pianist Harold López-Nussa. Ewe discussed his new album, Timba a la Americana, and his upcoming show at Dazzle on November 18.

Cuban-born pianist and composer HAROLD LÓPEZ-NUSSA begins an exciting new chapter of his fascinating career with his Blue Note debut, Timba a la Americana, a vibrant album teeming with joy and pathos that was inspired by the pianist’s recent decision to leave his Cuban homeland and begin a new life in France. Produced by Snarky Puppy bandleader Michael League, Timba a la Americana unveils a brand-new sound across ten dynamic original compositions performed by a tight-knit band featuring harmonica virtuoso Grégoire Maret, Luques Curtis on bass, Bárbaro “Machito” Crespo on congas, and Harold’s brother Ruy Adrián López-Nussa on drums.

The Andy Nevala Quartet performs traditional and contemporary Cuban Jazz. Dr. Andy Nevala, pianist, has been recognized by Downbeat Magazinefor directing, arranging, composing, and performing. 

Nevala has toured with the Glenn Miller Orchestra, Steve Lippia, Eddie Turner, and The ProJazz Trio.

The musician has recorded on over 20 CDs released in the US, Japan, and South America, most recently New West Records' “Big Band of Brothers,” which debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard Jazz Charts, and “Three Times Two,” released on the Girod record label out of New Orleans.

A jazz musician since the 1970s, Keith Oxman, toured with the Buddy Rich big band in 1986 and has played with artists including Art Blakey, Sonny Stitt, Red Holloway, Pete Christlieb, Jack McDuff, Phil Woods, Dave Brubeck, Jon Hendricks, Pete Christlieb, Louis Bellson, Pearl Bailey, The Temptations and The Fifth Dimension. He has eleven CDs on the Capri Records label. Two of his CDs were with John Coltrane’s trombonist Curtis Fuller, one with liner notes written by Benny Golson. Keith is also a sideman on two of Curtis Fuller’s CDs and a CD by Charles McPherson, and he has been a sideman on other recordings that have come out commercially but are not on the Capri label. His 2020 CD release with Houston Person, Two Cigarettes In The Dark (liner notes by Charles McPherson), was widely reviewed and was on the National Top 50 Jazz Week Chart for over two months. It received a 4-star review in the June 2020 issue of DownBeat magazine.

In this episode of Backstage Jazz, we spoke with singer, guitarist, and producer James McAndrew of Denver-based Milquetoast & Co. about the band’s upcoming show at Dazzle on Saturday, November 11, and their new album Run Rant Rave.

Denver-based Milquetoast & Co. mingles high-intensity indie rock with angular elements of Americana and a melancholic touch. The band’s music has drawn comparisons to  Morphine, Murder by Death,  Jeff Buckley, and even a little DeVotchKa. The lyrics are abundantly self-aware and ironic without watering down the complexity of the human experience.

Tyler was a part of IU Straight No Chaser for all four years of college, serving as the group's Musical Director for three years. He graduated in 2007, which makes him the youngest member. After college, he sang on two cruise ships with the a cappella group "Oceans F"ur." He joined Straight No Chaser in 2009 and was a part of SNC's first PBS special, "Live in "New York." He says he's been very blessed to do this for a living and can't thank the fans enough for their support.

Straight No Chaser is back on tour, serving up an all-you-can-eat buffet of holiday music (with none of the calories) as they cross the U.S. from October through December.

Thanks for listening, and please support the artists you hear by seeing them live and online. Purchase their music so they can continue to distract, comfort, provoke, and inspire.

Jack Dunlevie is a Denver-based pianist, mandolinist, vocalist, and composer. He graduated in 2015 from the Lamont School of Music at the University of Denver, winning composition and recital performance awards. Performing full-time around Colorado and touring nationally, he can be heard playing Jazz, Classical, Salsa, and Bluegrass with various bands both as a side man and as a leader.

Thanks for listening, and please support the artists you hear by seeing them live and online. Purchase their music so they can continue to distract, comfort, provoke, and inspire.

A Djembist, Composer, Producer, and Folklorist of the highest caliber, Braimah has an almost insatiable knack for drawing entire audiences into his groove, zigzagging through Africa on a breathtaking rhythmic roller coaster. His sound is the new voice of Djembe Music around the world.

Born in Ghana and raised in East St. Louis with deep roots in New Orleans, he was first introduced to West African culture and drumming and began performing at the age of 2.

In this episode, we'll speak with saxophonist/flutist Joe Anderies. He discusses his music career and latest release Resonance.

Joe’s past performance and recording experiences include the international group IMAGES that he helped form as well as collaborations with Rob Mullins, Ron Miles, Chuck Lamb, Eric Gunnison, Hugh Ragin, Paul Romaine, and Nestor Torres. Joe continues to lead groups and produce jazz concerts in the Denver area primarily at the jazz venue Dazzle.

This episode features an interview with composer and saxophonist Wil Swindler. We discuss his current release Space Bugs.

Swindler resides near Denver, CO, where he leads Wil Swindler's Elevenet, the modern bop quintet GoodRattle, and the Wil Swindler Quartet.  In addition to his own bands, he is an active performer with the Peter Sommer Septet, Al Hood’s H2 Big Band, the Colorado Symphony, the Ben Markley Big Band, the Colorado Jazz Orchestra, the Adam Bartzcak Republic, and many more.  

In addition to receiving IAJE's Gil Evans Fellowship in 2008, Wil has completed numerous commissions from jazz ensembles, military bands, and symphony orchestras worldwide.  Wil has three CDs available under his own name, Universe B (OA2 Records 2010), the Right Riot (2014) with GoodRqattle, and Chamber Jazz Ensemble (NohJoh Music 2006), and can be heard on numerous other albums, including Ingrid Michaelson’s Songs for the Season, Steve Owen's Stand Up Eight, Peter Sommer’s Happy-Go-Lucky-Locals, Al Hood/Dave Hansen's You're It, Bob Washut’s Journey to Knowhere, and David Caffey’s Enter Autumn and All in One.

Thanks for listening, and please support the artists you hear by seeing them live and online. Purchase their music so they can continue to distract, comfort, provoke, and inspire.

Taylor Clay was born in Brooklyn, NY, and began his musical journeys at the age of 13 and went on to study at the Crane School of Music in Potsdam, NY. After completing his degree in Music Performance in 2012, he moved to Colorado to attend the University of Northern Colorado as a graduate student and teaching assistant. Taylor lives in Denver, Colorado, and works as a freelance musician.

Upcoming Shows

The Taylor Clay Quartet will begin their weekly residency at Nocturne’s Jazz/Supper Club on Sunday, October 1. There will be two sets: 6:30 p.m. and 8:45 p.m.

In this episode of Backstage Jazz, musician Matt Smiley shares a few tracks with us from his upcoming double CD.

Matt Smiley is a bassist, composer, and educator who has performed in various musical settings over the last fifteen years. He has a bachelor’s degree in music industry with a jazz studies minor from James Madison University and a Master of Music in jazz studies from the University of Northern Colorado.

 An avid and enthusiastic musician, Smiley has performed nationally and internationally at universities nationwide and the Montreux, North Sea, and Montreal Jazz Festivals. 

Currently, Matt resides in Fort Collins, Colorado, where he plays jazz weekly with the Subterraneans at Ace Gillett’s. He has recently performed with legendary jazz musicians Terrell Stafford and Greg Osby and worked with composer Alvin Lucier. Matt has assisted Dr. Paul Elwood with the University of Northern Colorado’s Open Space Music Festival for the last five years and worked with festival artists Stephen Drury, Christian Wolff, and Jean-Claude Risset. 

Matt released Quartet Art on the Dazzle label in 2011, featuring David Pope on saxophone. Peaceful Contact Proved Elusive, with guitarist Alex Nauman, followed in 2014 as a limited-edition vinyl. Matt is featured on several Dazzle releases by artists Josh Quinlan, Annie Booth, and Ryan Fourt. 

This episode of Backstage Jazz features an interview with legendary jazz pianist and former Denver Public Schools Music Educator, Neil Bridge. Joining him is his wife and Muse, Vocalist/Collaborator, Karen Lee Bridge.

Neil Bridge is a legendary Jazz Piano player, composer, arranger, band leader, musical director, and former DPS music educator. Throughout his illustrious career, he has accompanied Mel Torme, Anita O’Day, Nancy Wilson, Dakota Staton, Johnny Smith, The Mills Brothers, Clark Terry, Sonny Stitt, and many more. He is well known for accompanying Johnny Smith (legendary world-class guitar player) for 30 years.

Karen Lee is currently fulfilling her passion for singing. Her dreams came true, and she finally fulfilled her lifetime wishes of singing professionally. Karen explains, “ I have been enrolled in the “N.B.A.O.M.,” for 30 glorious years. It’s the “Neil Bridge Academy Of Music!”

The music featured in the shows includes “Grooving’ in the City” and “Come Back To Me.” Both tracks can be found on the new album In The Key of Music (Neil Bridge & The Pride

Featuring Karen Lee Bridge), which can be purchased here: https://neilbridgemusic.bandcamp.com/album/in-the-key-of-music.

The Bridges will perform with Quintessence: Wayne Wilkinson Guitar), Mark Simon (Bass), and Todd Reid (Drums) at Dazzle on Friday, October 6, 2023, for a 7 p.m. show. Tickets are available here: https://www.dazzledenver.com. 

For more info on The bridges, please visit: https://www.neilbridgemusic.com

Thanks for listening, and please support the artists you hear by seeing them live and online. Purchase their music so they can continue to distract, comfort, provoke, and inspire

For over 30 years, Purnell Steen and the Five Points Ambassadors have been dedicated to preserving and playing the Jazz and Blues music of Denver's legendary Five Points neighborhood. In the special edition of Backstage Jazz, Steen pays tribute to music icon Charles “Charlie” Burrell in preparation for his 103rd birthday.

Burrell is a classical and jazz bass player and best known for being the first African American to be signed to a full-time contract in a major symphony orchestra in the United States. He is often called "the Jackie Robinson of Classical Music for this accomplishment.

He also performed with the San Francisco Symphony and later became a prominent figure in the Five Points jazz scene of Denver, sharing stages with the likes of Billie Holiday, Charlie Parker, and Duke Ellington.

Thanks for listening, and please support the artists you hear by seeing them live and online. Purchase their music so they can continue to distract, comfort, provoke and inspire.

Jazz trumpeter Greg Gisbert’s eclectic career is in its 5th decade. His resume includes recordings, tours, multiple television performances/movie and TV soundtracks with such icons as Lady Gaga & Tony Bennett, Frank Sinatra, Horace Silver, Frank Wess, Jimmy Heath, Buddy Rich, Clark Terry, Sarah Vaughn, Mel Torme, Jazz @ Lincoln Center, Wynton Marsalis, Maria Schneider, Dizzy Gillespie all stars w/ John Lee, Toshiko Akiyoshi, Chie Imaizumi (producer ) & more. Gisbert has held professorships & artist in residence as well as a highly respected featured guest artist for dozens of colleges & conservatories, most notably Juilliard, Manhattan School of Music, U of Miami, and CU Boulder & he is currently a faculty member for the Colorado Conservatory for the Jazz arts. 

Thanks for listening, and please support the artists you hear by seeing them live and online. You can find Backstage Jazz on all podcast platforms and TAVN Radio.

One of the most well-received musicians of her generation, composer and arranger Chie Imaizumi, has won many awards as an ambitious and active voice in the jazz community. She received the Herb Pomeroy Award, The Rocky Mountain Jazz Artist of the Year, and was recognized by DownBeat Critics Poll as a "Rising Star Composer & Arranger."

Tenia Nelson performs regularly at jazz venues in the Denver metro area, including Dazzle and Nocturne. Nelson is a freelance music artist and plays all types of music. She co-led a well-known Denver-based jazz group, Spherio, which focuses on arranging and playing the music of Thelonious Sphere Monk (Tenia Nelson, keys; Brendan O' Donoghue, bass; and Andreas Schmid, drums). I also lead a group called Tenia Nelson Trio (Tenia Nelson, keys; Brendan O' Donoghue, bass; Alex Tripp, drums). 

Miss Rhythm – The Legend of Ruth Brown explores the life and times of R&B legend Ruth Brown through story and song, accompanied by a five-piece jazz band and created by and featuring Sheryl McCallum (Disney’s The Lion King on Broadway; Xanadu, Oklahoma, and The Wild Party at the Denver Center) and featuring David Nehls (The Great American Trailer Park Musical, composer/lyricist; Xanadu and The Other Josh Cohen at the Denver Center). Ruth Brown is a pioneer in developing rock, blues, and jazz, a Tony and Grammy award-winner, and an inductee into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. A true original who showed grace and strength with a great sense of humor, Ruth Brown took the stage with as much talent as she did warmth.

This episode of Backstage Jazz features an interview with MaryLynn Gillaspie, a founding member of the Grammy-nominated vocal jazz group Rare Silk.

Rare Silk started in Boulder, CO. Their very first album, New Weave, flew to the top of the Billboard Jazz charts and received 2 Grammy nominations. MaryLynn and the group toured the world singing in the US, Europe, and Japan. MaryLynn’s return to singing began about 11 years ago. She performs locally at Suter Du Bose’s Caffe Sole and in Denver with different musical configurations. Her self-produced CD ‘Starlight’ received solid airplay on Denver’s Jazz station KUVO-FM. 

On this episode of Backstage Jazz, you'll also hear selections from Grover Washington Jr., Curtis Mayfield, and Grant Greet. The two-hour program features music from legends to the latest releases, along with musician interviews,

Host Steve Roby interviews jazz pianist Spencer Zweifel about his residency and tribute to Burt Bacharach at Nocturne Jazz Cub in Denver. Since forming his first jazz group at age 16, Spencer Zweifel has become a regular member of the Colorado music scene. An accomplished jazz pianist, Zweifel has performed professionally in various genres across Colorado and on tours around the US. 

Spencer graduated in 2019 with a degree in jazz studies from the University of Northern Colorado and won ‘Best Pop/Rock Soloist’ in the 2018 Downbeat Magazine student awards.

On This episode of Backstage Jazz, we're featuring an interview with jazz drummer Harold Summey. Summey has been a drummer/percussionist for over thirty years. The individuals he has performed with as either drummer or percussionist include Sonny Rollins, Clark Terry, Buck Hill, Harold Mabern, Eric Alexander, Gunther Schuller, Wynton Marsalis, Geri Allen, Pat Metheny, Whitney Houston. In 1992, Mr. Summey was the first-prize winner of the Thelonious Monk International Jazz Competition.

Every week on Backstage Jazz, you’ll hear a blend of contemporary and classic jazz and a touch of soul, funk, and blues, all selected by music journalist and host Steven Roby.

This episode features an exclusive interview with jazz bassist Seth Lewis.

Every week on Backstage Jazz, you’ll hear a blend of contemporary and classic jazz and a touch of soul, funk, and world music, all selected by music journalist and host Steven Roby.

Our guests on today’s show are BB King’s youngest daughter Claudette King, smooth jazz guitarist Gregory Goodloe, Tower of Power’s keyboardist Roger Smith, and pianist Ben Markley.

This show features an interview with Johnny Burroughs and Briana Harris of the funk/jazz band The Burroughs and a tribute to Tony Bennet. 

On Backstage Jazz, you’ll hear a blend of contemporary and classic jazz and a touch of soul, funk, and world music, all selected by music journalist and host Steven Roby.

On this episode of Backstage Jazz, host Steven Roby interviews Trance Blues musician Otis Taylor, musicians Daniel Steigleder and Sarah Mount, and neo-soul singer Wellington Bullings.

Best-selling music author and respected photojournalist Steven Roby brings his Backstage Jazz radio show to the TAVN Jazz Network. Join him on The Backstage Jazz show as he crafts unique musical sets and interviews Denver’s top musicians and those on tour here.

This episode features an interview with Al Chesis from The Delta Sonics.

Today's show features interview pianist and composer Steve Denny and Charlie Fox, who performs rootsy music inspired by sounds of soul, funk, blues, and gospel. On Backstage Jazz, you’ll hear a blend of contemporary and classic jazz and a touch of soul, funk, and world music, all selected by music journalist and host Steven Roby.

On Backstage Jazz, you’ll hear a blend of contemporary and classic jazz and a touch of soul, funk, and world music, all selected by music journalist and host Steven Roby.

Every week on Backstage Jazz, you’ll hear a blend of contemporary and classic jazz and a touch of soul, funk, and world music, all selected by music journalist and host Steven Roby.

Host Steven Roby interviews Rob Mullins, Jesse Ogle Nu Bass Theory, and Sarah Mount of Sarah Mount & The Rushmores. On Backstage Jazz, you’ll hear a blend of contemporary and classic jazz and a touch of soul, funk, and world music, all selected by music journalist and host Steven Roby.

Notes: This week’s show features highlights from the 20th annual Five Points Jazz Festival in Denver, CO. You’ll also hear comments from attendees and others associated with the event.

This week’s featured guests: Singer JoFoke (Same Cloth), guitarist Stafford Hunter, and pianist Bill O’Connell.

This is an exclusive backstage interview with the award-winning Hawaiian trio Ei Nei. It was recorded on November 5, 2022, before their concert at the Kahilu Theatre.

This is an exclusive interview with Hawaiian musicians Brother Noland and Michael Paulo. It was recorded backstage at the Kahilu Theatre on October 29, 2022, before their concert.

This is an exclusive backstage interview with award-winning Ukrainian pianist Dymtro Choni. It was recorded on October 26, 2022, after his concert at the Kahilu Theatre in Waimea.

After a three-year pandemic pause, the legendary Titan of the Telecaster Bill Kirchen will be returning for a concert at the Hilo Palace Theater on Saturday, November 12 at 7:30 p.m. This is a phone interview with Kirchen talking about his latest album, Iggy Pop, and the upcoming concert.

This is an exclusive interview with the Actors From The London Stage, Roger May and Claire Redcliffe. It was recorded on October 22, 2022, prior to their performance of "Macbeth" at the Kahilu Theatre in Waimea.

This is an exclusive interview with the Grammy-nominated hip-hop performance collective known as Alphabet Rockers. The interview was conducted on October 18 before their show at the Kahilu Theatre in Waimea.

This is an exclusive backstage interview with Portuguese guitarist Marta Pereira da Costa. It was recorded on October 2, 2022 before her concert at the Kahilu Theatre in Waimea.

This is an exclusive interview with Brian Dollinger, Kamuela Philharmonic Orchestra's conductor. It was recorded on September 25, 2022, before their concert at the Kahilu Theatre.

This is an exclusive interview with guitarist Stanley Jordan talking about his Honokaa People's Theatre show and upcoming music projects.

This is an interview with Celtica Nova's bassist Harald Winekum prior to the band's performance at the Hilo Palace Theater.

These are exclusive interviews with several of the performers with played the 25th Annual Hawaiian Slack key Festival in Kona. 

This is an interview with comedian Augie T and was recorded at the Kahilu Theatre on September 16, 2022. You can read the accompanying article on https://bigislandmusic.net.

This is an exclusive backstage interview with the Hawaiian contemporary group Waipuna. It was recorded on September 10, 2022.

This is a podcast interview with music journalist and author Jon Woodhouse talking about his new book Music Legends on Maui: Conversations with Icons of Rock, Country, Jazz, Blues, Hawaiian, Soul & Reggae in Paradise. The book features more than 80 interviews compiled over 40 years. It presents intriguing profiles of many icons, from Willie Nelson, Prince, and Paul Simon to B.B. King, Herbie Hancock, and Joan Baez, with unique insights into their creative and spiritual paths.

This is an exclusive interview with the Hawaiin Boy Band Crossing Rain (aka XR) done at KWXX studios in Hilo, HI. You'll also hear fan comments and a short clip of their Hilo Palace Theater concert.

Raised at his grandfather’s ranch in Waimea, legendary Hawai’ian musician Keola Beamer and his wife kuma hula Moanalani returned home to kick off the Kahilu’s 2022/23 season in grand style. This is an exclusive backstage interview with the slack key master.

Enjoy an evening with critically acclaimed violinist, fiddler, singer-songwriter, and composer Chris Murphy—Violin Storyteller, performing at the Kahilu Theatre on Saturday, September 3, at 6 p.m. In this podcast, Murphy talks about what the audience can expect from his upcoming show.

This is an exclusive interview with Native American jazz vocalist Julia Keefe. It was conducted at the Kahilu Theatre on August 20, 2022.

This is an interview with the Maui-based jam band Kanekoa. It was conducted at the Kahilu Theatre before their concert on August 13, 2022

This is an exclusive interview with comedian Justine Smith conducted at the Kahilu Theatre in Waimea on August 10, 2022.

This is an interview with Cabaret cast members Kyra Gomes, Charles, Haines, and Larry Reitzer.

This is an interview with Hawaiin Reggae (Jawaiian) legend Bruddah Waltah. It took place on July 29, 2022 at Hilo Palace Theater at benefit for the musician.

This is a discussion with Hair's Stage Director Lee Summers, Choreographer Debra McGee, and Hawaii Performing Arts Festival's Executive Director Justin John Moniz. They talk about what went into the production of HPAF's 2022 presentation of the rock musical "Hair."

This is a behind-the-scenes look at “Orpheus in the Underworld,” a Hawaii Performing Arts Festival Production. The discussion features Stage Director Scott Skiba, Costume Designer Michelle Hartman, and Music Director Paul Floyd. It was recorded at the Kahilu Theatre on July 18, 2022.

This is an interview with Blues guitarist Bob Margolin talking about his career and upcoming show at Gertrude's Jazz Bar in Kona on July 23.

This is a special “Behind the Curtain” event featuring Stage Director Beth Dunnington and Alexis  Enyart, music director and conductor for the Opera "As One."

This is an interview with music director and conductor Alexis Enyart who will be part of the chamber opera As One. As One runs for two performances at the Kahilu Theatre on Saturday, July 9 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, July 10 at 4 p.m. Purchase tickets at KahiluTheatre.org

This is an interview with Hāwane Rios, a chanter, dancer, singer/songwriter, musician, resource educator, and cultural practitioner. We discussed her upcoming performance at the Fairmont Orchid, as well as current and future projects

On Thursday, June 30, the Hawaii Performing Arts Festival (HPAF) celebrates the start of its 18th season at Fairmont Orchid. The Festival will celebrate the rich culture of Hawai’i during a transcendent season opener in the open-air Plantation Estate. Performers include Hawane Rios, Blayne Asing, Kaulu Amaral with Pomai Brown & Friends, and Hālau Ka’eaikahelelani. All proceeds from this evening will support the HPAF Scholarship Fund for local high school students. 

Ronnie V & The Family Band will be releasing their debut album Family Style on Friday, July 1 on various platforms and on CD. In this interview, we spoke with Ronnie about the album and asked him to select two tracks to discuss.

The Family Style album is available for purchase via Bandcamp. You can also stream it on Spotify and other digital platforms.

Show Notes: This is a pre-show interview with musician and multi-instrumentalist Joachim Cooder. He will be appearing at the Kahilu Theatre on Saturday, June 25 at 7 p.m.

We discussed his latest album Over That Road, I’m Bound, a Hawaiian connection with his father Ry Cooder and Gabby Pahinui, along with what fans can look forward to at his upcoming show in Waimea.

This is an interview with Hawaiian slack key guitar master Makana before his Father’s Day concert at the Hilo Palace Theater on June 19 at 4 p.m. In the interview, we discussed his latest album, Pūlama: Legacies of Hawai'i, and what fans can look forward to at the show.

This is an interview with legendary guitarist Stanley Jordan. It was done at the Hilo Palace Theater on June 3, 2022, before his tribute to Jimi Hendrix concert.

This interview with the legendary John Crus was recorded at the Kahilu Theatre on May 28, 2022, before his second show at the venue.

Show Notes:  This is an interview with piano prodigy Joey Alexander, and it was conducted on May 25, 2022, at the Kahilu Theatre in Waimea. You can find Songs & Stories on all major podcast platforms, including Pandora, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. Listen and download for free. The show also airs weekly on KONA 100.5 FM in Kailua, Kona.

This is an interview with Hawaiian music legend Robert Cazimero. It was conducted at the Kahilu Theatre on May 21, 2022, before his evening concert. Toward the end of the podcast, you'll find bonus material with Robert talking about the 1974 Waimea Music Festival and the double album that was released of the concert.

Dating back to 1954, Honokaʻa Western Week is among the most highly anticipated Big Island festivals. To honor a century-old paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) heritage, the town of Honokaʻa serves up a unique cultural blend of rodeo sports, high-energy events, music, food, and education every May. This interview with several of the 2022 Western Week talent show contestants.

This is an interview with Prince Dance Company's Angel Prince. It was done on May 6, 2022, and we discussed the new dance musical "Wild Things."

It’s been three years since ukulele virtuoso Taimane has graced the Kahilu Theatre’s stage, and Waimea welcomed her back last Saturday with a warm round of cheers and applause. This interview was recorded on April 30, 2022 backstage at the Kahilu Theatre.

This is an interview with singers Ronnie Moss and Jessie Peck of The Spinners. It was done on April 24, 2022 at the Kahilu Theatre in Waimea shortly before their concert.

This is a collection of interviews with the organizer and several of the musicians at the Best of Kona Festival, April 16, 2022.